Nigeria has reached a historic threshold, becoming a net exporter of petrol for the first time in decades—a shift powered by the rapid scale-up of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery. In March 2026, the country exported about 44,000 barrels per day, slightly outpacing imports and signaling a major turnaround from years of fuel dependence. As the refinery’s output climbed and imports dropped to record lows, Nigeria began replacing costly foreign supplies with domestic production. The milestone is already rippling beyond its borders, with exports reaching markets like Mozambique and reshaping regional fuel trade. Economically, the shift could ease pressure on the naira, boost foreign exchange earnings, and strengthen energy security. More broadly, it marks a long-awaited transition toward refining more of Nigeria’s crude at home.
Business Insider Africa
