Nigeria Missing as List of World's Top 10 Largest Crude Oil Producers Emerges
Legit.ng journalist Victor Enengedi has over a decade's experience covering Energy, MSMEs, Technology, Banking and the Economy.
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Crude oil remains a key part of the world economy, fueling industries and affecting global relationships. In 2025, the largest oil-producing countries play a crucial role in the energy market, supplying millions of barrels daily.
Even as the price of crude oil has dropped in recent weeks, these countries, from well-established oil leaders to newer producers, have a strong influence on global politics and are vital in setting oil prices.
Their ability to produce oil, the size of their reserves, and their investments in energy have a big impact on both their local economies and the stability of global energy.
Source: Getty Images
Legit.ng takes a closer look at the top 10 crude oil producers and their contributions to global production, according to Business Insider Africa.
1. United States - 12.9 million barrels per day
The U.S. has been the world’s largest oil producer for six consecutive years. In 2023, it set a new record by producing 21.91 million barrels per day, accounting for 22% of global output. Texas remains the leading oil-producing state, significantly outpacing others. The U.S. is also the world’s largest oil consumer, with an average daily consumption of 20.5 million barrels in 2023.
2. Russia - 10.1 million barrels per day
Russia continues to be a major oil producer, contributing 11% to global output. It has maintained a significant export capacity, with oil exports averaging between 7.4 and 9.1 million barrels per day over the past decade. Despite facing economic sanctions, Russia's oil production remains substantial at 10.1 million barrels daily.
3. Saudi Arabia - 9.7 million barrels per day
Saudi Arabia holds a large percentage of the world’s proven oil reserves and is the largest petroleum exporter globally. Its oil and gas sector constitutes about 50% of its GDP and 85% of export earnings. Despite being surpassed by the U.S. and Russia in production, it remains a dominant force in global oil markets.
4. Canada - 4.6 million barrels per day
Canada ranks fourth in oil production, primarily due to its vast oil sands in Alberta. These unconventional resources have positioned Canada as a key player in the global oil market. However, the country faces challenges such as environmental concerns and logistical hurdles in transporting oil sands.
5. Iraq - 4.3 million barrels per day
Iraq's oil production has seen substantial growth since 2005, making it the fifth-largest producer globally. The country possesses some of the world's largest oil fields, particularly in the southern region. However, challenges such as political instability and infrastructure limitations continue to affect its oil sector.
6. China - 4.2 million barrels per day
China is the fifth-largest oil producer, contributing 5% to global production. While it has significant production capabilities, China remains the world's largest oil importer, reflecting its substantial domestic demand. The country is also investing heavily in renewable energy sources to diversify its energy mix.
7. Iran - 3.6 million barrels per day
Iran holds some of the world's largest proven oil reserves, estimated at 208.6 billion barrels. Despite facing international sanctions, Iran's oil production remains significant. The country continues to explore ways to enhance its oil sector and reduce the impact of sanctions.
8. Brazil - 3.4 million barrels per day
Brazil's oil production has been on the rise, driven by offshore fields in the pre-salt layer. The country is a significant player in the Latin American oil market and continues to invest in deepwater exploration technologies. Brazil's oil industry is largely state-controlled through Petrobras, its national oil company.
Source: UGC
9. UAE - 3.4 million barrels per day
The UAE is a significant oil producer in the Middle East, with the majority of its production coming from the emirate of Abu Dhabi. The state-owned Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) oversees the country's oil operations. The UAE is also investing in renewable energy projects to diversify its energy portfolio.
10. Kuwait - 2.6 million barrels per day
Kuwait is one of the world's leading oil producers, with an estimated oil production capacity of three million barrels per day. The country has maintained consistent production levels but faces challenges in increasing output due to factors such as foreign investment issues.
Top 10 oil-producing Nigerian states
Meanwhile, Legit.ng earlier reported that Akwa Ibom, Delta and Rivers lead the largest oil-producing Nigerian states in 2025 with 504,000 barrels daily, 346,000 barrels daily and 344,000 barrels daily, respectively.
This is according to data published by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NUPRC), showing states with the highest crude oil output per daily barrel.
Nigeria’s Niger Delta region boasts several oil-rich states, contributing to the country’s daily output.
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Proofreading by Nkem Ikeke, copy editor at Legit.ng.
Source: Legit.ng
