Nigeria’s Dangote Refinery has officially commenced fuel exports to several African countries, following a sharp increase in global oil prices triggered by the ongoing war in the Middle East. The conflict, which has lasted three weeks, disrupted oil shipments through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, prompting countries to take measures to mitigate the impact of rising energy costs.
The refinery, owned by Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, announced on Sunday that it had sold 12 cargoes totaling 456,000 tonnes of fuel to nations including Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Tanzania, Ghana, and Togo. Located east of Lagos, Nigeria’s economic hub, the Dangote Refinery has a production capacity of 650,000 barrels per day. This allows it not only to satisfy Nigeria’s domestic fuel demand but also to export surplus supplies to other countries.
In a statement, the refinery said, “By supplying neighbouring and other economies, the Dangote Refinery is expected to contribute to enhancing energy security across West, East, and Central Africa.” A company spokesperson told AFP that the decision to export was largely influenced by the Middle East conflict, adding that there has been growing demand for fuel, including jet fuel, from outside Africa, although specific details were not disclosed.
Within Nigeria, fuel prices have risen sharply in recent weeks, with petrol in Lagos climbing from 830 naira per litre to more than 1,300 naira (approximately $0.60 to $0.94, or 0.53 to 0.83 euros). At the onset of the conflict, Dangote Refinery pledged to prioritize the Nigerian market to prevent fuel shortages and curb the impact on domestic prices.
Prior to the commissioning of the Dangote Refinery in 2024, Nigeria relied heavily on fuel imports, which often led to recurring shortages and price volatility. The refinery’s capacity now allows the country to produce the bulk of its fuel requirements locally while also supporting regional energy needs.
Experts note that Dangote Refinery’s exports come at a critical time, providing relief to neighbouring economies affected by global supply disruptions and strengthening Nigeria’s position as a key energy supplier in Africa. The move underscores the strategic importance of local refining capacity in managing both domestic and regional fuel security during global crises.
