Extent of Trade between Nigeria and Partner Ecowas Nations in Beverages and Tobacco

This study evaluates the trade dynamics between Nigeria and ECOWAS nations specifically in the beverages and tobacco sectors. The objectives include quantifying Nigeria's gross exports and imports of these commodities within the ECOWAS sub-region, analyzing intra-trade shares among ECOWAS nations, evaluating the terms of trade among member countries, and estimating the degree of regionalization in trade. Data were sourced from the TRAINS database and analyzed using descriptive statistics, trade share, and the Trade Intensity Index. The findings indicate that Nigeria has consistently held a dominant position in intra-ECOWAS trade, peaking at 54.81% in 2013, with Côte d’Ivoire maintaining a significant share of 12.09% in 2008. Notably, countries such as Burkina Faso, Niger, and Togo exhibited trade intensity values above one in certain years, signaling a strong reliance on imports from within the ECOWAS region. Additionally, increasing terms of trade ratios, particularly for Nigeria (peaking at 276,786 in 2023) and Senegal (50547.1 in 2014), reflect robust export performance in these sectors. The study concludes that while Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire are key players, nations like Senegal, Togo, and Burkina Faso are enhancing their participation, indicating potential for deeper regional economic integration. Consequently, the study recommends that policymakers devise strategies to address significant constraints that may adversely affect revenue generation for the economy.