Despite prevailing global trade tensions and residual tariff policies from the Trump administration era, the United States imported Nigerian crude oil valued at $1.34 billion within the first five months of 2025.
This data, released by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), highlights Nigeria’s continued relevance in America’s energy supply chain, even amid shifting geopolitical dynamics and a growing focus on alternative energy sources.
Between January and May 2025, the U.S. maintained consistent purchases of Nigerian crude, underscoring the enduring demand for Nigeria’s low-sulfur, high-quality Bonny Light crude, which remains attractive to American refiners for its refining efficiency.
The figures also suggest that despite lingering tariff frameworks introduced during the Trump administration, economic factors and energy needs continue to dictate trade realities. While the U.S. has increasingly pushed for energy independence and diversification, Nigeria has retained its place as one of the key exporters of crude to the North American market.
Energy analysts believe this steady demand demonstrates Nigeria’s strategic advantage in the global oil market. However, they warn that overdependence on crude exports could expose Nigeria to external economic shocks, especially as major economies pursue clean energy transitions.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has welcomed the development, saying it reinforces the importance of maintaining stable production levels and resolving domestic challenges that affect oil output.
With oil accounting for over 80% of Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings, sustained U.S. demand offers some relief to Nigeria’s revenue base amid concerns about rising debt and subsidy burdens.
