• Pakistan explores Nigerian oil imports amid supply disruptions
• Strait of Hormuz closure forces search for alternative sources
• Nigeria positions itself as a key supplier as global demand shifts

Pakistan now considers Nigeria a potential oil supplier as tensions disrupt its traditional supply routes. According to reports published on April 24 by Pakistan Today, Islamabad is exploring imports of crude oil and refined fuels from the West African producer.

At the same time, The Express Tribune reported that the Pakistani government is actively reviewing alternative sources beyond Nigeria. The effort includes new tenders for liquefied natural gas (LNG) to offset supply disruptions affecting its usual channels.

Pakistan imports more than 80% of its crude oil and refined products. Its main suppliers—Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates—ship through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been closed for several weeks due to the conflict in Iran.

This shift is not limited to Pakistan. Earlier this month, Nigerian media reported that India, the world’s third-largest oil importer after the United States and China, is also seeking to increase its purchases of Nigerian crude in response to growing instability in global energy markets.

In late March, Reuters reported that India had secured up to 60 days of oil supply by diversifying its sources, including increased sourcing from Africa. The move reflects a broader effort to reduce reliance on the Middle East, which has historically accounted for about 40% of India’s crude imports.

As countries accelerate diversification strategies, Nigeria is positioning itself as a credible alternative to Middle Eastern supply. The country has emphasized its ability to meet rising international demand, as noted in a March 2026 publication by Ecofin Agency.

Official data released in January show Nigeria’s oil production ranged between 1.6 million and 1.7 million barrels per day, reinforcing its role as a leading producer on the continent.

Authorities also highlight short-term growth potential. Bayo Ojulari, head of the state-owned NNPC Ltd, said at the CERAWeek conference that Nigeria could increase output by about 100,000 barrels per day in the coming months.

Abdel-Latif Boureima