By Peace Udugba -The daily torch media
Dangote Refinery Drives Historic Shift as Nigeria Becomes Net Petrol Exporter, Boosts Forex Earnings
Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals has recorded a landmark achievement in Nigeria’s energy sector, exporting 44,000 barrels per day (b/d) of gasoline in March 2026. The development has positioned Nigeria as a net exporter of petrol for the first time, with a surplus of about 3,000 b/d recorded during the month.
This milestone marks a significant turnaround for Africa’s largest oil-producing nation, which has relied heavily on imported refined petroleum products for decades. Industry experts say the surge in exports—driven by increased output from the Dangote Refinery—is expected to generate substantial foreign exchange inflows, ease pressure on the naira, and strengthen overall macroeconomic stability.
The March performance underscores Nigeria’s accelerating journey toward self-sufficiency in refined petroleum products, while reinforcing its ambition to become a competitive player in the global downstream oil market.
In a major boost to its international reach, the refinery also exported gasoline to East Africa for the first time, delivering a 317,000-barrel cargo to Mozambique. The shipment highlights growing regional demand, as East African buyers increasingly diversify supply sources away from the Middle East amid ongoing supply disruptions. Another gasoline cargo is scheduled for delivery to Beira, Mozambique, in April.
Data from energy market intelligence firm Kpler further shows a sharp decline in Nigeria’s gasoline imports, which dropped to 41,000 b/d in March—the lowest level on record. Meanwhile, crude oil supply to the Dangote Refinery rose to about 565,000 b/d, marking the second-highest intake since the 650,000 b/d-capacity facility commenced operations in late 2023. The figures indicate strong refining activity and improved product output.
Analysts believe Nigeria’s transition from a major petrol importer to an exporter will reshape regional fuel trade dynamics and intensify competition in global markets. The shift is also expected to exert additional pressure on Europe’s already saturated gasoline market, as Nigeria emerges as a new supplier.
Speaking on the broader economic impact, President and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, attributed the refinery’s progress to ongoing economic and energy sector reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the policies have helped restore investor confidence and created an enabling environment for large-scale investments in domestic refining.
With rising production levels, expanding export destinations, and declining reliance on imports, the Dangote Refinery’s performance signals a turning point for Nigeria’s energy sector—one that promises stronger foreign exchange earnings, improved energy security, and a more prominent role in global petroleum product trade.
