Nigeria recorded a staggering ₦146.11 billion in motorcycle imports during the first quarter of 2025 (Q1’25), according to the latest report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The Foreign Trade in Goods Statistics released by NBS reveals a sharp ₦28 billion increase compared to ₦117.4 billion in the same period last year (Q1’24) representing a 24.4% year-on-year (YoY) surge.
This increase comes despite the presence of local motorcycle assembly plants and widespread restrictions or outright bans in several Nigerian states due to security and safety concerns.
Where Motorcycles Are Banned
- North: In 2019, the Nigerian Army banned motorcycles in remote parts of Kano, Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kaduna, Kebbi, and Niger State.
- Lagos: Partial or complete bans have been enforced in different parts of the city multiple times since 1999.
- East: States like Enugu and Anambra have also implemented similar restrictions.
Despite these curbs, imports of motorcycles and related goods continue to rise, raising questions around policy coherence, consumer demand, and the impact on local manufacturing.
Beyond Bikes: Other Key Imports
The NBS report noted that imports of used vehicles, motorcycles, herbicides, polypropylene, and communication machines all crucial to industry hit a combined ₦7.8 trillion in Q1’25. This represents 21.67% of total trade during the quarter.
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