Economy
Nigeria, 4 others most hard hit amid Covid-19 and oil price plunge
- Angola, Senegal, Cameroon, Ghana and Nigeria among the most hard hit amid Covid-19 and oil price plunge
- Angola revises national budget and suspends CAPEX; Senegal’s first oil development faces debt arrangement challenges; Nigeria poised for a major revenue loss; Analysts predict Ghana will get half its projected revenue; Cameroon can expect to see a three percent drop in economic growth.
African oil-producing and reliant countries have been among the most hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic and declining oil price. In particular, Senegal, Nigeria and Angola continue to face new challenges each day amid the threat of economic fallout.
The Atlantic Council has predicted that COVID-19 would cause Nigeria to suffer the biggest lost in the continent with $15.4bn, representing about 4% of the nation’s GDP, a fair assessment considering the country has over $58bn in oil projects set to suffer delays or cancellations.
The African Energy Chamber below analyses the most vulnerable African countries amid the Covid-19 pandemic and low oil price:
Angola
In 2020, the Angolan government led by H.E. President João Lourenço, had set out to focus on economic diversification and uplift the country from nearly five years of recession. However, in the face of the oil price slump, the oil-reliant country has slowed the implementation of its planned economic reform strategy, which had included the privatization of state-owned companies and plans to reduce public debt to less than 60 percent of GDP by 2022 from approximately 90 percent in 2018 and, over 100 percent in 2019.
In response to the current market instability, the Angolan government which relies heavily on oil revenue has declared a state of emergency and made the decision to review its national budget. With this, it will object its budget on a reference oil price of $35 per barrel maximum – a significant cut from the initially drawn up $55 per barrel, Finance Minister Vera Davis de Sousa revealed on Friday, explaining that the country’s oil production is expected to tumble to 1.36 million barrels per day(bpd).
Further, Davis de Sousa shared that Angola would also be freezing 30 percent of its goods and services budget and its CAPEX would be suspended pending completion of the budget review. Meanwhile, the Angolan sovereign wealth fund has agreed to offer $1.5 billion on condition of future repayments through increased tax in the Bank of Angola’s growing debts.
“In this time, the Angolan economy will be best served by swift government action,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “With the finance minister already confirming that the country’s economy will shrink by 1.21 percent this year, signally a fifth year of recession, Angola needs a solid action plan that involves intense renegotiation strategies with domestic and foreign creditors, if it is to make it out on the other side,” he added.
Senegal
Since discovering oil and gas in 2014, the West African country emerged as a major player in the global oil and gas industry, with it moving rapidly on setting up a new Petroleum code in 2019, creating new entities such as COS-Petrogaz and revising local content regulations. As a result, the country has enjoyed increased foreign investment and entry of international majors. However, global market turbulence has had a hard knock-on effect on Senegal’s promising oil future.
In particular, the country’s first oil development, the $4.2 billion Sangomar deepwater offshore project has suffered immense pressure as project partner FAR Ltd fails to finalize debt arrangements. Citing current environment as a major contributor, FAR said: “the company’s ability to close the Sangomar Project debt arrangements that were ongoing during this time have been compromised such that the lead banks to the senior facility have now confirmed that they cannot complete the syndication in the current environment,” adding that neither the junior nor mezzanine facilities that were being arranged will be able to be completed for the foreseeable future. Project operator, Woodside and partner Cairn, continue to explore other options to see through project development.
The current global environment also stands to slow down the country’s other activities in the sector specifically, the country’s first offshore licensing round which was launched earlier this year by the national oil company, PETROSEN as a means to further push the countries exploration and production.
Though the government is yet to share incentives for companies to continue activities, it has set up a fund to support the local economy.
“Senegal is undoubtedly one of the most promising oil and gas producers Africa has to offer. Led by H.E. President Macky Sall, the country is primed for new growth and investment. Despite what is happening in the global market, we hope to see Senegal build on its eight oil and gas discoveries, and enjoy first oil from the Sangomar oil field and first gas from BP’s Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG project,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.
As it stands, Senegal has also seen Cairn Energy reduce its planned investment to below $330 million from the initial forecast of $400 million.
Nigeria
Nigeria is projected to suffer substantial revenue losses. With it having planned for an oil price of $57 in 2020, the low oil price presents massive struggles for Africa’s largest oil producer. To this point, Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Mele Kyari said at a crude oil price of $22 per barrel, high-cost oil producers like Nigeria should count themselves out of the business.
To this, the Atlantic Council has predicted that COVID-19 would cause the country to suffer the biggest lost in the continent with $15.4bn, representing about 4% of the nation’s GDP, a fair assessment considering the country has over $58bn in oil projects set to suffer delays or cancellations.
Though the country is yet to announce incentives for continued oil exploration and production, it is set on protecting its oil production which contributes generously to its economy. Specifically, the country’s petroleum regulator has, according to Reuters, ordered oil and gas companies to reduce their offshore workforce and move to 28-day staff rotations in order to avoid the spread of coronavirus.
“Nigeria is at risk to suffer the biggest loss. With the low oil price pushing the country to cut its budget and companies to reduce their CAPEX, the global is waiting to see Nigeria’s next move,” said NJ Ayuk, “Although it is hard to see the light for Nigeria, with the commitment of companies and resilience of the government, the country can certainly weather the storm, “ he added.
Ghana
The fall in oil prices coupled with COVID-19 has also had heavy impacts on Ghana’s oil industry, which has been on a path of steady growth for over 10 years since Kosmos Energy’s oil discovery west of Cape Three Points in the country’s offshore. And, more recently, Springfield Group’s historic 1.5 billion barrels.
Having set a benchmark of $58.66 oil price per barrel until the end of 2020, Ghana’s projected oil revenue is set to take a hit, with analysts already predicting the country will get half its projected revenue.
Oil production activity is also expected to see delays as Tullow Oil revises production targets and terminates the drilling contract with Maersk Drilling for the Maersk Venturer drillship offshore Ghana.
“If prices should stay around the US$30 mark, then the government is less likely to get half of the revenue that it projected. Already, we’ve seen Tullow cut back it’s production. So aside the international fall in crude oil price that we have to match with in selling our own bit of oil that we get as a country, production is also falling in our own shores,” said Paa Kwasi Anamua Sakyi, Executive Director at the Institute for Energy Security.
Cameroon
According to an analysis of the economic and financial impacts released by the Press Secretariat of the CEMAC Economic and Financial Reforms Programme, Cameroon can expect a three percent drop in growth in light of the global crisis.
Operations in the oil also stand to be affected with the country already seeing a turn. Specifically, with companies such as Tower resources declaring force-majeur on its development in the Thali block in the country’s offshore. The company also revealed that activity on the NJOM-3 offshore well may also be suspended.
Although the government has not announced any incentives for continued activity in the sector, it has acknowledged the non-oil commodities that will contribute the most to the country’s economic decline.
Now is an extremely challenging time for African oil development, the African Energy Chamber encourages Africa’s oil producing countries to adapt to the changes, implement incentives and plan for the future. This global crisis can only be worked through with continued commitment, support and collaboration.
ElombahNews with Press Statement Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
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Tier-one Lender, Fidelity Bank Plc., has announced the resumption of international transactions on its Naira Debit Cards.
This recommencement gives customers the freedom to make seamless payments abroad, online, and at ATMs outside the country.
The Divisional Head of eBanking, Fidelity Bank, Ifeoma Onibuje, shed light on the development.
Onibuje said: “We are delighted to inform the public that Fidelity Naira Cards are now enabled for global use.
“This means that our travelling customers can now utilize their Naira Debit cards outside the country to shop, spend and withdraw internationally without hassles.”
“Consequently, our customers can now spend up to $1,000 quarterly for international POS and online transactions; and withdraw up to $500 quarterly on international ATMs.”
The announcement offers Fidelity Bank customers another way to complete international transactions, in addition to the Bank’s existing foreign currency debit and credit cards.
The bank stated that it further reinforces its commitment to delivering solutions that fit seamlessly into customers’ lifestyles.
With Fidelity Bank’s VISA and Mastercard Naira Debit Cards, Nigerians can now enjoy effortless global access.
Beyond payments, Fidelity VISA cardholders, one of the variants of the bank’s card offerings, also enjoy premium travel and lifestyle benefits.
The benefits range from airport lounge and spa access via the Visa Airport Companion App, to fast-track immigration lanes and 20% discounts on SIXT car rentals worldwide.
This move, the bank said, also reflects its commitment to provide secure, convenient, and reliable banking services that empower customers in Nigeria and beyond.
The bank noted that it has deliberately made the process of getting a Fidelity Naira card seamless.
It stressed that customers can easily apply for their Fidelity VISA or Mastercard Naira Debit card via the Fidelity Mobile App or simply visit the nearest Fidelity bank branch to request for one and they can start transacting globally with ease.
Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.
The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine.
Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.
A Nigerian TikTok sensation known as “Geh Geh” has stunned the internet after pulling in over $30,000 from a single live session that attracted more than 177,000 viewers.
The young entertainer, who calls his platform the “University of Wisdom and Understanding,” has quickly built a cult following with his raw and unfiltered lectures about women, money, and survival in Nigeria.
During the live broadcast on Thursday, August 21, viewers showered him with virtual gifts that he later calculated to be worth over $30,000.
The milestone instantly pushed him into the spotlight as one of Nigeria’s fastest-rising online personalities.
Reacting in disbelief after the stream, Geh Geh said:
“More than 177,000 people watch my lectures today. Jesus! University of wisdom and understanding, the only university where once you graduate, woman go fear to ask you for money.”
Despite not having a formal education, Geh Geh proudly calls himself “the first illiterate to find a university in the history of Nigeria.” In a video after the viral live, he reminded fans of his humble background:
“I no be graduate too, but by the grace of God, I don find school. I be orphan, but now Nigerians don show me love.”
The TikTok star admitted he was overwhelmed by the generosity of his supporters.
“See gift I made over… more gift when they give me today is worth about $30,000. I no go take this love for granted, because I no really do anything for am.”
His rise has been hailed as proof of how social media is transforming lives in Nigeria. With no degree, no rich background, and no industry connection, Geh Geh has managed to build a fanbase that now calls themselves “students” of his unusual university.
Still, his controversial views on women and relationships continue to spark heated debates. While some dismiss his advice as reckless, others insist his boldness speaks directly to Nigeria’s frustrated youth.
Reflecting on his sudden fame, Geh Geh compared himself to great thinkers:
“If Nigeria be country wey value great people, by now them suppose dey compare people like me with Aristotle, Wole Soyinka, Einstein… but I thank God say people dey see my head and my own difference.”
From an orphan with no prospects to a viral star earning in dollars, Geh Geh’s story has become one of digital empowerment.
His journey shows how platforms like TikTok are creating new forms of fame, money, and influence for Nigerians especially those once written off by society.
The United Kingdom has once again cemented its position as Nigeria’s leading source of foreign capital, accounting for more than N5.5 trillion in inflows during the first quarter of 2025, according to the latest data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
Figures from the Capital Importation Report show that capital from the UK rose to $3.68bn (N5.52tn) in Q1 2025, representing 65.26% of Nigeria’s total $5.64bn inflows for the quarter.
This marked a 29.2% rise from the $2.85bn recorded in Q4 2024 and more than double the $1.81bn inflows seen in Q1 2024.
This underscores Britain’s dominance in Nigeria’s external financing profile and highlights the strong bilateral financial ties between both nations.
Breakdown of Q1 2025 Capital Inflows by Country
United Kingdom: $3.68bn (65.26%)
South Africa: $501.29m (8.88%)
Mauritius: $394.51m (6.99%)
United States: $368.92m (6.54%)
United Arab Emirates: $301.72m (5.35%)
Together, these top five countries accounted for over 92% of Nigeria’s capital inflows, reflecting both the concentration of Nigeria’s foreign investments and the risks of over-dependence on limited markets.
Other contributors included:
Cayman Islands: $114.76m (up sharply from $0.64m in Q4 2024)
Belgium: $70.54m
France: $47.33m
Netherlands: $42.68m (down significantly from $425.61m in Q4 2024)
Singapore: $36.79m
Overall, capital importation into Nigeria stood at $5.64bn in Q1 2025, up 10.9% from Q4 2024’s $5.09bn, and a remarkable 67.1% higher than the $3.38bn recorded in Q1 2024.
The NBS noted:
“Capital Importation during the reference period originated largely from the United Kingdom with $3,681.96m, showing 65.26 per cent of the total capital imported.”
A separate survey by Strategy Management Partners (UK) reveals that British companies are increasingly targeting Africa as a strategic growth frontier.
50% of UK firms with annual turnover above £20m are already operational in Africa and planning expansions.
Another 28% of executives said they are interested but remain cautious about entry strategies.
Africa’s appeal lies in its resource wealth and demographic potential:
30% of the world’s mineral reserves
8% of natural gas reserves
12% of oil reserves
65% of the world’s arable land
Projected to host 25% of the global workforce by 2035
Seven key sectors remain magnets for foreign capital inflows into Nigeria and Africa at large:
1. Technology
2. Oil & Gas
3. Power and Renewable Energy
4. Agriculture
5. Manufacturing
6. Infrastructure
7. Strategic Minerals
Analysts warn that while Nigeria’s reliance on UK-driven inflows reflects strong global confidence, the concentration of sources exposes the economy to external shocks if investor sentiment shifts in these countries.
Diversification of investment partnerships particularly within Asi
a, the Americas, and intra-African trade will be crucial to ensuring long-term resilience in capital inflows.
The United States government has said that Nigeria’s new N70,000 minimum wage has lost real value due to the sharp fall of the naira, leaving millions of workers trapped in poverty.
According to the 2024 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices, released by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labour, the wage translates to just $47.90 per month.
The report noted that currency devaluation and weak enforcement have undermined the wage increase.
The report also revealed that many states are yet to implement the new wage law. Several governors cited financial challenges as the main excuse.
Even where the law exists, compliance remains poor because of limited labor inspectors and weak oversight from authorities.
Wage Devaluation and Exclusion
The report highlighted that firms with fewer than 25 workers are excluded from the minimum wage law, leaving millions of employees without protection.
This also explained that about 70 to 80 percent of Nigeria’s workforce operates in the informal sector, where wage and labor rights are almost never enforced.
This means a majority of Nigerians continue to earn far below the national benchmark, despite the government’s approval of N70,000 as the new minimum wage.
The U.S. report stressed that the naira’s sharp decline, trading above N1,500 to the dollar, had worsened the wage erosion. This has left workers unable to afford basic needs, pushing many deeper into poverty.
Human Rights and Labor Challenges
The document pointed out that weak enforcement of labor laws contributes to worsening poverty levels in the country.
Workers in the informal sector, such as street vendors, artisans, and small traders, rarely benefit from labor protections.
The report also noted that Nigeria’s minimum wage is rarely sufficient to cover basic food, housing, and transport needs.
This has further exposed structural gaps in the government’s approach to economic reforms and poverty reduction.
Governors Push Investment Platform
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has launched a new investment initiative called NGF Investopedia.
The platform seeks to attract capital flows into bankable projects across all 36 states, with the goal of tackling Nigeria’s annual $100 billion infrastructure financing deficit.
The launch event in Abuja gathered governors, international partners, and investors. The forum described the platform as a long-term strategy to unlock growth opportunities across states and strengthen Nigeria’s subnational economies.
NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, said Nigeria must urgently leverage its human and natural resources to address poverty and joblessness.
“Here is Africa’s largest economy, endowed with abundant human and natural resources,” he said, stressing that state governments must play a bigger role in attracting investments and supporting local industries.
A Widening Gap
The contrast between the U.S. report on wage decline and the governors’ push for investment highlights Nigeria’s economic paradox.
While authorities promote foreign capital inflow, millions of workers continue to survive on wages that have lost most of their value.
With inflation rising, food prices soaring, and the naira weakening, the gap between earnings and cost of living keeps widening.
Unless enforcement improves and the informal sector is integrated into wage protections, the N70,000 benchmark may remain symbolic rather than effective.
Fidelity Bank may have hit another milestone the Fidelity Naira Card is now accepted globally.
This was disclosed in a message sent to Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) via email on Monday.
According to the statement entitled “Your Fidelity Naira Card Now Works Globally; Shop, Pay and Withdraw with Ease!“, customers can buy favourite global brands online using their Fidelity Naira Card.
The band also stated that they can equally pay at POS terminals abroad and make cash withdrawals at ATMs as they travel.
The message reads:
“We’re excited to let you know that your Fidelity Naira Card is now enabled for global use — so you can shop, spend and withdraw internationally with confidence.
“Here’s what you now enjoy every quarter:
|
Channel |
Transaction Limit |
| ATM Withdrawal abroad | $500 |
| Online/Web & POS Payments | $ 1,000 |
“What does this mean for you?
- Shop your favourite global brands online
- Pay at POS terminals abroad with ease
- Withdraw cash at ATMs when you travel.”
The statement, however, noted that the $1,000 quarterly limit applies to all international transactions combined, including ATM withdrawals, online purchases, and POS payments.
The bank urged customers who may need assistance with setting card limits or activating their cards for global use, to contact the bank’s customers care “Centre Trueserve”, which is available round the clock, whether in Nigeria, or outside the country.
“Your world, your card — spend smart, spend globally with Fidelity,” the message concludes.
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