Nigeria’s Q1 2025 GDP figures, released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), show that the economy is seeing strong traction in select infrastructure and services sectors despite broader structural challenges.
According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Rail Transport and Pipelines emerged as the fastest-growing sector in the quarter, expanding by 28.95% year-on-year, reflecting increased activity in freight movement and capital deployment into railway infrastructure.
Close behind was the Metal Ores sector, which grew by 25.20%, a continuation of momentum from 2024 amid improved global demand and rising local extraction.
Analysts believe this growth could be linked to ongoing investment in solid minerals and the federal government’s push to diversify the export base.
The Electricity, Gas, Steam, and Air Conditioning Supply sector posted a surprising rebound, growing by 18.65%, its strongest performance in recent quarters. This may be attributed to improved grid stability and expanded energy access, particularly in industrial corridors.
The top 10 fastest-growing sectors posted annual growth rates ranging from 7.8% to nearly 29%, indicating pockets of economic resilience.
Fastest sectors in Q1 2025
Here’s a breakdown of each top-performing sector and what’s driving their momentum.
- Q1 2024: 113.72%, Q4 2024: 36.59%
Like rail, the metal ores sector is still growing fast, but at a significantly slower pace. The 25.20% growth in Q1 2025 marks a continued deceleration from 36.59% in Q4 2024 and a steep fall from the triple-digit 113.72% seen in Q1 2024.
This indicates that while mining remains active, the explosive rebound phase may be over. Still, the sector is benefiting from sustained interest in solid minerals and regulatory improvements.
Growth in the metal ores subsector especially gold, zinc, and iron ore — was supported by rising global demand and improved local exploration.
