Contribution of oil and gas extraction to employment in African producers

Africa’s oil and gas industry remains a major revenue earner for several economies, but its direct contribution to employment is still relatively small, according to data from Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) reports.

Nigeria, the continent’s largest producer on the list, recorded oil production of 2.24 million barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2023, employing about 8,480 workers in the sector.

Angola followed with 1.23 million barrels per day and nearly 39,770 workers.

Despite high production levels, the industry accounts for only a tiny share of total national workforces in most countries.

Gabon recorded the highest workforce share at 0.6 per cent, while Angola stood at 0.3 per cent. Countries such as Chad, Ghana and Nigeria posted shares as low as 0.01 per cent.

The figures highlight the capital-intensive nature of the petroleum industry, where advanced technology and automation often limit direct job creation despite billions generated through exports and energy production across the continent.