Nigeria’s private sector witnessed its first expansion in six months, marking a significant recovery in business activities during the festive season, according to the latest Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) report. The report revealed a rise in consumer demand and improved economic activity, pushing the PMI above the 50-point threshold that indicates growth.
The expansion comes after a prolonged period of stagnation caused by rising inflation, currency instability, and other economic challenges. Festive season demand played a pivotal role in the resurgence, with increased spending on goods and services providing much-needed relief to businesses.
Retail and hospitality sectors recorded the highest growth, buoyed by holiday shopping and travel. The manufacturing and logistics sectors also reported notable improvements, reflecting enhanced supply chain efficiencies during the period.
Economic analysts have attributed the rebound to stabilizing economic conditions and improved consumer confidence, though they caution that high operating costs, persistent inflation, and currency volatility remain hurdles to sustained growth.
The PMI report offers a glimmer of hope for 2025, with experts calling for targeted reforms and policies to address structural challenges and support long-term economic recovery.