Nigeria has been ranked third among Africa’s top ten manufacturing countries, according to a recent report by a leading business information platform for entrepreneurs and investors across the continent.
The report identifies the top African nations hosting the most influential and largest manufacturing companies. It places South Africa, Egypt, and Nigeria in the top three spots, followed by Morocco, Kenya, Algeria, Ethiopia, Ghana, Tunisia, and Zambia, respectively.
According to the report, “The manufacturing sector in Africa is projected to have a value-added output of $77.66 billion and a total output of $284.70 billion by the end of 2025.” These figures underscore the growing importance of manufacturing in driving Africa’s economic transformation.
Nigeria: A Manufacturing Giant in the Making
Nigeria’s position in the top three reflects its rapidly evolving industrial landscape, which is buoyed by a large population, policy reforms, and an emerging middle class. The country is home to some of the biggest industrial conglomerates in Africa. Chief among them is the Dangote Group, which has become a symbol of Nigeria’s manufacturing might, especially through the ambitious Dangote Refinery, expected to be one of the largest in the world.
Other key players include the BUA Group, a fast-growing industrial conglomerate with major investments in cement and sugar refining; Nestlé Nigeria, a global player in food and beverages; and Unilever Nigeria, which leads in consumer goods production.
Nigeria’s top manufacturing sectors include:
Cement
Consumer Goods
Food and Beverages
Oil Refining
These sectors are supported by various government policies aimed at reducing import dependency, boosting local production, and enhancing economic diversification through initiatives such as the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) and the National Development Plan 2021–2025.
Africa’s Manufacturing Leaders: A Snapshot
South Africa, ranked number one, is considered Africa’s most industrialized economy. Its well-established infrastructure, strong automotive sector, and partnerships in chemicals and steel industries have cemented its leadership position.
Egypt, in second place, is lauded for its export-driven industrial strategy. With a strong presence in pharmaceuticals, cement, textiles, and petrochemicals, Egypt’s reform-driven approach and geographical advantage fuel its manufacturing growth.
Morocco has emerged as a high-tech manufacturing hub, particularly in aerospace and automotive sectors. The country benefits from European Union trade ties and targeted government incentives.
Kenya is the manufacturing leader in East Africa, focusing on agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, plastics, and fast-moving consumer goods.
Algeria combines both public and private sector leadership in manufacturing, with a focus on automotives, cement, steel, and electronics. Companies like Groupe Cevital are pivotal to Algeria’s industrial strategy.
Ethiopia, despite facing economic challenges, has attracted international investors with its low labor costs and special economic zones. The country focuses on garments and textile production for export.
Ghana’s industrial growth is being shaped by its “One District One Factory” initiative, which supports small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and enhances local production in cocoa, agriculture, and beverages.
Tunisia remains a key exporter of auto components and textiles to Europe, while modernizing its electronics and light manufacturing capabilities.
Zambia, rounding out the top ten, is building its manufacturing strength in agro-processing, cement, steel, and consumer goods. Companies like Zambeef, Lafarge Zambia, Trade Kings, and Dangote Zambia are key contributors.
The Future of African Manufacturing
As global supply chains evolve, Africa’s potential as a manufacturing hub continues to grow. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is expected to further enhance intra-African trade and create more opportunities for regional industrial growth.
Nigeria’s strong showing in this latest ranking demonstrates that with the right mix of investment, infrastructure, policy stability, and innovation, the country could become not only a continental but also a global manufacturing force in the near future.
