Nigeria plans to begin urea exports by 2028, leveraging midstream investments to strengthen fertiliser production and global energy market presence

Nigeria is set to commence urea exports by 2028, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) announced during a facility tour of Indorama Eleme Fertiliser and Chemicals Limited in Rivers State on Wednesday, 21 January 2026.

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NMDPRA Chief Executive Saidu Mohammed disclosed that large-scale fertiliser exports are part of a strategic plan to enhance value addition in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector and attract private-sector investment.

He emphasised that the midstream segment is crucial for unlocking the industry’s potential but requires between $30 billion and $50 billion in capital investment.

“The midstream segment of the oil and gas business is a tremendous one that requires massive investment. With expansions at Indorama and Dangote Fertiliser, Nigeria can join the league of urea-exporting countries within 24 months,” Mohammed said.

Rivers State, home to refineries, processing plants, and manufacturing facilities, was highlighted as pivotal for midstream development.

Mohammed stated that the NMDPRA will create an enabling environment for operators and encourage further investment in the sector.

Indorama Eleme CEO Munish Jindal welcomed the visit, noting regulatory improvements over 20 years and advocating for adjustments to better reflect current midstream realities.

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If realised, Nigeria’s entry into urea exports represents a major economic shift, moving beyond crude oil to higher-value petrochemical products, and could reinforce the country’s standing in global energy markets.