Background of the Study :
International trade has long been recognized as a key engine for economic growth, providing opportunities for market expansion, technology transfer, and increased foreign exchange earnings. In Nigeria, the Ministry of Trade has implemented various policies aimed at promoting exports, reducing trade barriers, and enhancing global market integration between 2000 and 2020. These initiatives have sought to diversify the export base and improve competitiveness in international markets (Okonkwo, 2023). Empirical studies indicate that effective trade policies can stimulate domestic production and generate employment, thus driving overall economic growth (Adeniyi, 2024). However, challenges such as infrastructural deficits, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and external market fluctuations have often limited the success of these policies. This study evaluates the role of international trade in driving Nigeria’s growth by analyzing policy outcomes, export performance, and overall economic indicators. The research aims to offer insights into how the Ministry of Trade’s initiatives have contributed to economic expansion and what adjustments are necessary to further enhance trade-driven growth (Chukwu, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Despite numerous trade initiatives, Nigeria’s growth remains constrained by persistent challenges in effectively integrating into global markets. Inconsistencies in policy implementation and infrastructural limitations hinder the potential benefits of international trade. The gap between policy objectives and actual trade performance has resulted in suboptimal economic growth and missed opportunities for industrial diversification. This study seeks to identify the factors contributing to these shortcomings and to evaluate the overall impact of trade policies on economic growth, thus providing a foundation for more robust trade strategies (Okonkwo, 2023; Adeniyi, 2024).
Objectives of the Study:
1. To assess the role of international trade in driving Nigeria’s economic growth.
2. To identify challenges affecting trade policy outcomes.
3. To propose strategies to enhance global market integration.
Research Questions:
1. How does international trade contribute to economic growth in Nigeria?
2. What obstacles limit the effectiveness of trade policies?
3. What measures can improve Nigeria’s global competitiveness?
Research Hypotheses:
1. H1: International trade positively influences economic growth.
2. H2: Infrastructural challenges limit trade performance.
3. H3: Policy reforms can significantly boost export competitiveness.
Significance of the Study (100 words):
This study evaluates the role of international trade in stimulating economic growth in Nigeria. Its findings will provide critical guidance for the Ministry of Trade and policymakers to address existing barriers and optimize trade strategies, ultimately enhancing Nigeria’s integration into the global economy and fostering sustainable development (Chukwu, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
The study is limited to evaluating the impact of international trade on economic growth in Nigeria, focusing exclusively on policy analysis and export performance.
Definitions of Terms:
1. International Trade: The exchange of goods and services across national borders.
2. Economic Growth: An increase in the production and consumption of goods and services.
3. Ministry of Trade: The government agency responsible for trade policy in Nigeria.
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