Top 5 African countries with the most active drilling rigs in May 2025
A large number of operational oil drilling rigs typically represents a powerful sign of prosperity and potential for African countries with hydrocarbon resources.
Business Insider Africa presents the top 5 OPEC African countries with the most active drilling rigs.
This list is courtesy of the OPEC monthly oil market report.
Algeria ranks number 1 on the list.
Generally speaking, a large rig count denotes robust economic activity in the oil sector. It denotes the entire functioning of exploration and production (E&P) activities, which draw in capital, create jobs, and boost revenue.
In many African countries where oil and gas continue to be major contributors, maintaining a strong rig count may be essential for long-term economic success.
Each drilling rig generates jobs, not only on-site but also across the supply chain. These include engineers, geologists, welders, transportation operators, and local service providers.
A larger rig count stimulates employment, local business revenue, and infrastructural development, particularly in oil-producing nations.
The number of rigs is directly related to national policy and energy security for countries that rely heavily on oil. Increasing the number of local rigs can improve geopolitical negotiating leverage and lessen dependency on imports.
Increasing rig activity can also assist governments in oil-rich African countries like Nigeria, Angola, and Algeria in balancing their budgets and meeting export goals.
Investors keep a tight eye on rig count statistics, particularly those from firms like Baker Hughes.
Decisions about capital allocation and market positioning are influenced by changes in the number of operating rigs, which frequently cause swings in oil prices and energy equities.
With that said, here are the African countries with the most rig count currently, as per OPEC's report.
Top 5 African countries with the most active drilling rigs in May 2025
Rank Country Number of oil rigs Change between April and May
1. Algeria 43 1
2. Libya 18 0
3. Nigeria 9 -2
4. Gabon 3 0
5. Democratic Republic of Congo 1 0
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