Nigeria’s energy landscape faces a potential shake-up as the Dangote Petroleum Refinery considers exporting all its petrol, diesel, and jet fuel from its 650,000-barrel-per-day facility in Lekki, Lagos State. Sources at the refinery say the decision is driven by the continued issuance of import licences by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), despite official denials. If implemented, this move could strain local fuel availability and reignite long queues at filling stations.
A senior Dangote Group official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told reporters that the refinery may prioritize exports because “import licences are still being granted,” citing recent approvals for six companies to bring in Premium Motor Spirit (petrol). The official questioned why the government continues to issue licences amid a global energy crisis, referencing international efforts, including U.S. policies, to protect domestic industries.
Beyond Nigeria, several African countries, including South Africa, are reportedly engaging with the Dangote refinery to secure stable fuel supplies. Bloomberg reported that these nations are looking to West Africa as traditional Middle East supply routes face disruptions. Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group, has emphasized that availability, rather than pricing, is driving this surge in demand.
The NMDPRA, however, maintains that no new import licences have been issued in 2026. The agency clarified that vessels arriving with fuel were operating under licences granted in late 2025. In February, the Dangote refinery produced an average of 36 million litres per day, compared to national consumption of 56 million litres, highlighting a temporary gap that domestic production could still bridge if import practices align with regulatory guidance.
Industry experts and stakeholders have urged the government to prioritize local refining. Ahmed Fashola, Vice President of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, stressed that the Dangote refinery has been crucial in shielding Nigerians from price shocks amid Middle East tensions. He called for full support of domestic refining initiatives and a halt to unnecessary import licences, warning that uncoordinated exports could trigger fresh shortages and undermine recent gains in energy stability.
source: punch