Jumia Records 42% Growth In Goods GMV In Q1

Jumia Nigeria recorded a 42 per cent year-on-year increase in physical goods Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) in the first quarter of 2026, emerging as one of the company’s strongest-performing markets during the period.

The strong performance further reinforces Nigeria’s position as a key growth market for the e-commerce platform amid rising consumer confidence and expanding digital commerce adoption.

Speaking on the company’s Q1 performance, Chief Executive Officer of Jumia Nigeria, Temidayo Ojo, said the growth reflected increased customer engagement and sustained investment in technology, logistics and customer experience.

According to him, “Nigeria continues to showcase the strength and resilience of its digital commerce ecosystem.

The growth we experienced in Q1 reflects a notable increase in consumer confidence, enhanced engagement across our platform, and our ongoing commitment to investing in technology, logistics, and customer experience.”

Jumia attributed the strong growth to disciplined execution and improved operational efficiency, driven largely by advanced technology and AI-powered systems across its operations.

The company said it deployed artificial intelligence and automation tools in key areas including finance, customer support, cybersecurity, seller management and logistics to improve service delivery while reducing operational costs.

It also reported a year-on-year decline in technology and content expenses, supported by strategic workforce optimisation and cost savings from renegotiated contracts.

According to the company, the growing use of AI tools within its technology teams, alongside automation across call centres and operational systems, has strengthened efficiency and supported sustainable expansion across African markets.

Jumia also recorded improvements in customer retention and marketplace activity during the quarter. Quarterly Active Customers rose to 2.5 million, while physical goods orders increased to 5.9 million in Q1 2026.

The company further disclosed that 62 per cent of total orders now originate from secondary cities and rural communities, highlighting the increasing penetration of digital commerce beyond major urban centres.

Despite global economic pressures, including rising costs of memory chips and CPUs as well as supply chain disruptions linked to tensions in the Middle East, Jumia said it remains focused on achieving profitability.

The company stated that it is on track to attain adjusted EBITDA breakeven and positive cash flow by the end of Q4 2026, while targeting full-year profitability in 2027.