Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has recorded a major milestone in Nigeria’s energy history. Exporting 44,000 barrel per day ( b/d) of gasoline in March 2026, an achievement that has positioned Nigeria as a exporter of petrol for the first time ever, with surplus of approximately 3,000 during the month.
The landmark performance marks a decisive turnaround for Africa’s largest oil – producing nation, which for decades relied heavily on imported refined petroleum products. Industry experts says the surge in exports, driven by rising output from Dangote Refinery, is expected to deliver substantial foreign exchange inflows, easing pressure on Nigeria’s forex market while supporting overall macroeconomic stability.
The March export milestone underscores Nigeria’s accelerating progress towards self – sufficient in refined petroleum products and strengthen its ambition to become a competitive supplier in global downstream energy market.
In a significant expansion of its international footprint, the Dangote Refinery also exported gasoline to East Africa for the first time, delivering a 317,000 barrel cargo to Mozambique.
The shipment reflects growing regional demand as East African buyers diversity supply sources away from the Middle East Gulf amid ongoing supply distruptions. A further gasoline cargo from the refinery is scheduled for delivery to Beira, Mozambique in April.
Supporting data from market intelligence firm Kpler showed that Nigeria’s gasoline imports fell shortly to 41,000 barrel per day in March, the lowest level ever recorded. At the same time, crude oil supply to the Dangote facility climbed to 565,000 barrel per day, the second biggest intake since the 650,000 barrel per day refinery began operations in late 2023. The figure point to strong process rates and rising products yields across the complex.
Analysts say Nigeria’s transition from major gasoline importer to an exporter is poised to reshape regional fuel markets. The development is also to add pressure to Europe’s already over supplies gasoline market as Nigeria increasingly competes with traditional suppliers.
Commenting on a broader economic implications, President and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote recently credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic and energy sector reforms for restoring investor confidence and creating the policy environment necessary for large scale investments in domestic refining.
With rising output, expanding export markets, expanding export markets, and declining imports, the Dangote Refinery’s performance signals a turning point for Nigeria’s energy sector, one that promises stronger forex earnings, improved energy security and a more influential role for the country in global petroleum products trade.
