In 2025, Nigeria emerged as a major player in crude oil exports to the United States, accounting for approximately 52% of Africa's total exports to the U.S., as reported by the US Census Bureau. Despite a decline in total US crude imports from Africa, which decreased by 13.8% from the previous year, Nigeria's contribution still marked a significant portion of the continent's shipments, suggesting its robust role in the oil export market.

According to the latest data, total US crude imports from Africa fell to 89.371 million barrels in 2025, which was a substantial decrease from the previous year. Nigeria supplied 46.618 million barrels, down from 50.793 million barrels in 2024. However, the decrease in volume did not curtail Nigeria's share of the market; instead, it increased from 49% in 2024 to 52.2% in 2025. This shows a complex dynamic in the oil market where Nigeria's significance is rising even as overall exports decline.

The rise in Nigeria's share of crude oil exports to the U.S. amidst a general downturn in total African exports reflects both the challenges faced by other African oil producers and Nigeria's attempts to solidify its position in the international oil market. This trend indicates potential implications for Nigeria's economy and its strategic engagements with U.S. markets, especially through policies aimed at enhancing oil production and export capacities.