Nigeria has consolidated its position as Africa’s foremost crude oil supplier to the United States, shipping 33.23 million barrels valued at $2.57 billion during the first eight months of 2025.

The data, released by the U.S. Mission in Nigeria yesterday via its official X handle, underscores the West African country’s pivotal role in the transatlantic energy market.

According to the mission’s statement, Nigeria’s crude oil shipments to America accounted for more than half of all African exports to the U.S. in January-August, reinforcing the strategic energy partnership between both countries.

“Nigeria was the leading African exporter of crude oil to the United States between January and August 2025, shipping 33.23 million barrels worth $2.57 billion. That’s more than half of all African crude oil exports to the United States during that period,” the U.S. Mission stated.

The diplomatic mission emphasised that robust trade relations between Nigeria and the U.S. generate employment opportunities and foster economic prosperity on both sides of the Atlantic.

Industry analysts attribute the growing crude oil demand to the Dangote Refinery, which commenced operations in January 2024. The 650,000 b/d capacity refinery, Africa’s largest, is progressing towards full operational capacity and has fundamentally altered Nigeria’s crude oil consumption patterns.

The surge in crude oil exports represents substantial gains for Nigeria’s economy through enhanced foreign exchange earnings, strengthened bilateral trade frameworks and prospects for increased investment in oil and gas infrastructure.

For the United States, Nigeria’s consistent crude oil supplies provide energy security through diversification of sources, particularly from a dependable African partner with established trade relations.