U.S. Cuts Nigerian Crude Oil Imports by 47.16% in January

In January 2026, the United States significantly reduced its imports of Nigerian crude oil by 47.16% month-on-month, according to the latest data from the U.S. Trade Agency.

Imports fell to 1.664 million barrels from 3.149 million barrels in December 2025, representing a decline of 1.485 million barrels. This reduction indicates a notable contraction in Nigeria's share of the U.S. crude market, with the value of Nigerian crude exports dropping sharply from $217.36 million in December to $115.99 million in January.

The cost of insurance and freight also decreased from $223.10 million to $118.95 million during this period. Concurrently, total U.S. crude imports fell from 198.29 million barrels in December to 188.21 million barrels in January, a 5.1% decrease.

Nigeria's market share in U.S. crude imports declined to 0.88% in January from 1.59% in December, while Angola's exports increased to 575,000 barrels, and Ghana emerged as a new supplier with 738,000 barrels. Despite this decline, crude oil remains Nigeria's dominant export, accounting for 63.65% of total U.S. imports from Nigeria in January.