Nigeria’s petrol imports have dropped to their lowest level since 2017, thanks to increased local production from the Dangote Refinery.
According to a Bloomberg report citing data from energy analytics firm Vortexa Ltd, Nigeria imported about 110,000 barrels of petrol per day between January 1 and 24, 2025. This marks a sharp decline from past figures, which were often above 200,000 barrels per day, and in some years exceeded 400,000 barrels daily.
Experts say the development is a direct result of the Dangote Refinery ramping up its operations and supplying more locally refined fuel to the Nigerian market. The refinery, located in Lagos, is the largest in Africa and Europe and is gradually reshaping the region’s fuel supply chain.
“A large part of the slowdown in Nigeria’s gasoline imports is due to the ramp-up of the Dangote refinery,” said Samantha Hartke, an analyst at Vortexa. “Northwest Europe will have to find alternative homes for its gasoline supplies.”
The refinery, which is not yet operating at full capacity, is already boosting Nigeria’s fuel independence and reducing the need for imported petrol.
This move not only supports the country’s economy by saving foreign exchange but also strengthens energy security, experts say. It may also lead to more stability in domestic fuel prices in the long term.
The Dangote Refinery is part of Nigeria’s broader efforts to revive its refining industry and reduce overdependence on foreign petroleum products.
