United States Crude Oil Export to Nigeria

For the first time, the United States became a net exporter of crude oil to Nigeria during February and March 2025, marking a reversal of historic trade patterns (Reuters, 2025). This shift resulted from lower U.S. crude demand on the East Coast due to refinery maintenance at the same time that Nigeria’s Dangote refinery increased its intake of imported crude for production. Traditionally, Nigeria was a significant supplier of crude to the U.S., consistently ranking among the top import sources. In February 2025, U.S. crude exports to Nigeria climbed to 111,000 barrels per day and further increased to 169,000 barrels per day in March, while imports from Nigeria notably declined as a direct result of the Bayway refinery’s closure for maintenance in New Jersey (Reuters, 2025). However, U.S. imports from Nigeria began to rebound after the refinery resumed operations in April. Market analysts suggest that these trade flows could be temporary because Nigeria’s new refinery may eventually secure domestic supply or alternative sources, making it uncertain whether this trend will persist (Reuters, 2025).

Reference

Reuters. “US became net exporter of crude to Nigeria for first time, EIA says.” Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/us-became-net-exporter-crude-nigeria-first-time-eia-says-2025-07-22/