Dangote Refinery Boosts Local Supply, Reduces Nigeria’s Reliance on Petrol Imports
Nigeria’s petrol market is witnessing a major shift as Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical now reportedly meet domestic fuel demand, reducing the country’s reliance on imported petrol. Independent oil marketers confirmed that they are sourcing petrol directly from Dangote, signaling a more stable supply chain and fewer shortages nationwide.
Chinedu Ukadike, National Publicity Secretary of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), told Nairametrics that independent marketers have no complaints about supply or pricing. “All supplies are coming from Dangote, and the market has stabilized. Prices are dropping, and there’s no need for imports at this moment,” he said, highlighting the refinery’s direct supply model to marketers.
Despite earlier concerns that petrol importation surged in November 2025 due to alleged supply disagreements, Dangote Refinery refuted such claims. The refinery emphasized that its operations remain fully functional, producing over 50 million litres daily, and that partnerships with marketers are deliberately structured to enhance efficiency, competition, and nationwide access.
Some marketers, however, acknowledge that importation continues, though primarily for stock security. Edwin Ogah, a retail marketer, explained that imported volumes help build buffers during peak periods and are not intended to flood the market. “Domestic refining capacity is growing, but it has not yet reached a level that completely replaces imports. Supply remains sensitive to logistics and foreign exchange availability,” he noted.
With the refinery pledging to deliver 1.5 billion litres monthly, industry experts anticipate further price reductions and improved market competitiveness. Independent marketers say the direct supply model reduces distribution costs, ensures more affordable fuel for consumers, and signals a significant step toward self-sufficiency in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector.
source: nairametrics