February 25, (THEWILL) — Nigeria may be on the verge of achieving fuel self-sufficiency as the Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals announced plans to supply more than 65 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) daily to the domestic market while exporting surplus production to international buyers.
The refinery disclosed this in a corporate statement on Wednesday, describing the development as a landmark shift in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector aimed at meeting and exceeding national fuel demand and ending decades of reliance on imported refined products.
According to the company, a structured offtake agreement has been concluded with selected petroleum marketers to ensure efficient nationwide distribution and eliminate supply instability across the country.
President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, said the refinery would prioritise domestic consumption before exporting excess volumes estimated at between 15 and 20 million litres daily.
“We have agreed an offtake framework to supply over 65 million litres daily for the domestic market. Any surplus will be exported,” Dangote stated.
Nigeria’s average daily petrol consumption currently ranges between 50 and 60 million litres, indicating that the refinery’s projected output would exceed local demand.
Industry analysts say the development signals a decisive turning point for Africa’s largest crude oil producer, long burdened by fuel import dependence, foreign exchange volatility, and recurring shortages.
Experts also noted that increased local refining capacity could help Nigeria conserve billions of dollars annually previously spent on fuel imports, ease pressure on the naira, strengthen external reserves, and improve trade balance stability.
During a recent visit to the facility, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Bayo Bashir Ojulari, described the refinery as a transformative national asset capable of redefining Nigeria’s energy security architecture and accelerating industrial growth.
Ojulari revealed that although the plant was designed to process 650,000 barrels per day, live operational parameters recorded output levels of about 661,000 barrels per day, surpassing initial expectations.
He further described the refinery as a source of national pride and evidence of Nigeria’s ability to leapfrog longstanding industrial constraints through the adoption of advanced global technology.
Energy analysts believe sustained production at the projected capacity could stabilise fuel supply, reduce logistics disruptions, and position Nigeria as a net exporter of refined petroleum products within Africa and beyond.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
