April 16, (THEWILL) — The Dangote Petroleum Refinery exported about 434 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) in March 2026, after production significantly outpaced domestic consumption, according to data from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority.
Figures from the regulator’s March fact sheet showed the refinery produced 1.49 billion litres of petrol during the month, while 1.06 billion litres were supplied locally, leaving a sizeable export surplus. The facility, owned by Aliko Dangote, operated at an average capacity utilisation of 93.62 percent.
Daily output averaged 48.2 million litres, with 34.2 million litres distributed within Nigeria. The excess was shipped to regional markets, highlighting the refinery’s growing footprint across Africa.
The development marks a turning point for Nigeria’s downstream sector, which has historically relied on fuel imports. The refinery confirmed that the country became a net exporter of gasoline in March, supported by rising output. Data from Kpler indicated imports fell to a record low of 41,000 barrels per day, while exports rose to 44,000 b/d.
The company also disclosed its first gasoline shipment to East Africa, with cargo delivered to Mozambique and additional volumes scheduled.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s state-owned refineries remained largely inactive, with minimal contribution to supply. Analysts say sustained crude availability and infrastructure improvements will be key to consolidating gains from ongoing reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Ogochukwu Onwaeze is a writer specializing in business and economic journalism. At THEWILL News Media, she translates market trends, financial developments, and policy shifts into clear and engaging stories.
