US crude imports Nigeria drop by 47% in January 2026 as Angola and Ghana gain market share, according to official trade data

The United States recorded a significant decline in crude oil imports from Nigeria in January 2026, with volumes falling sharply amid broader shifts in global energy trade patterns.

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Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis showed that US crude imports from Nigeria dropped by 47.16 per cent month-on-month.

The US crude imports Nigeria drop saw volumes fall to 1.664 million barrels in January, down from 3.149 million barrels in December 2025, representing a decline of 1.485 million barrels within a single month.

In value terms, Nigerian crude exports to the US also weakened significantly, with customs value falling from $217.36m to $115.99m over the same period.

Cost, insurance and freight value also declined sharply, reflecting reduced shipment volumes and lower trade activity.

The contraction came amid a broader slowdown in US crude imports, which fell from 198.29 million barrels in December to 188.21 million barrels in January, a decline of about 5.1 per cent.

Within Africa, Nigeria’s position weakened as competitors gained ground. Angola recorded a strong increase in shipments, while Ghana emerged as a new supplier to the US market. Libya, however, also experienced a decline in exports during the period.

Nigeria’s share of total US crude imports fell to 0.88 per cent in January, down from 1.59 per cent in December, underscoring its reduced market presence.

Despite the drop, crude oil remained the dominant component of Nigeria’s exports to the United States, although its share of total exports also moderated as overall trade volumes declined.

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The development highlights shifting trade dynamics between Nigeria and the US energy market, where sourcing decisions and global supply adjustments continue to reshape import patterns.