Libya has exported crude oil to Nigeria for the first time, supplying nearly two million barrels during May as Nigerian refineries sought alternative feedstock to offset shortages in domestic crude supplies.
According to Nigeria’s Punch newspaper, citing data from the Energy Research Unit, Nigeria imported an average of 64,500 barrels per day of Libyan crude during May, equivalent to approximately two million barrels over the month. The report said this is the first recorded import of Libyan crude into Nigeria since historical trade records began in 2013.
The imports reflect growing changes in regional energy markets as Nigerian refiners increasingly look abroad to secure sufficient crude supplies. A significant share of Nigeria’s own oil production continues to be exported under existing contracts, reducing the volume available for domestic refining.
According to the report, the Libyan crude was delivered to the Dangote Refinery, Africa’s largest refinery, which has been increasing its search for reliable crude supplies to support full-scale operations.
The development follows reports published in 2024 suggesting that the refinery was considering purchasing Libyan crude.
At the time, Libya’s National Oil Corporation (NOC) denied holding negotiations or signing agreements to supply crude oil to any Nigerian refinery, reaffirming its commitment to established international contracts and marketing mechanisms.
