Petrol Imports Still Dominate Nigeria’s Fuel Supply Despite Dangote Refinery Boost
Nigeria consumed a total of 613.6 million litres of petrol between October 2024 and October 10, 2025, with imported fuel accounting for nearly two-thirds of the supply, according to data from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). Despite the recent ramp-up of domestic refineries, particularly the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, imports still supplied 377.5 million litres, while local production contributed 236.1 million litres during the period.
The figures highlight a slow but significant shift toward domestic refining, as local output rose from 9.62 million litres per day in October 2024 to 18.93 million litres per day by October 2025. Meanwhile, petrol imports fell sharply from 46.38 million litres per day to 15.11 million litres per day over the same period, reflecting a 67% reduction in foreign-sourced fuel. Analysts say this trend coincides with the Dangote Refinery reaching its first full year of large-scale operations, producing between 15 and 20 million litres of petrol daily.
Monthly breakdowns show fluctuations in both imports and domestic output. While import volumes occasionally rebounded, domestic production maintained a mostly upward trajectory, with notable output above 20 million litres in multiple months. Overall, total petrol supply averaged 46.6 million litres per day, with imports contributing 29.5 million litres and local production providing about 17.1 million litres, according to the NMDPRA data.
Experts believe the increase in local refining is easing pressure on Nigeria’s foreign reserves, reducing the billions of dollars previously spent monthly on import letters of credit, freight, and insurance. Olatide Jeremiah, CEO of Petroleum.ng, noted that Nigeria still imports about 60% of its daily petrol needs despite being Africa’s largest crude oil producer. He emphasised that full domestic access to crude oil in naira is crucial to further boost production and reduce pump prices nationwide.
The Dangote Refinery’s success signals a potential turning point in Nigeria’s energy sector, offering hope for a more stable fuel supply and improved energy security. With continued policy support and operational stability, local refineries could further reduce import dependence, lower costs for consumers, and solidify Nigeria’s position as a regional hub for refined petroleum products.
source: punch