Despite the Dangote refinery starting petrol production in September 2024, Nigeria imported 15.01 billion litres of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol), accounting for 69% of the 21.68 billion litres consumed from August 2024 to October 10, 2025, according to the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). Domestic refining contributed 6.67 billion litres (31%).
Imports peaked at 54.30 million litres per day in September 2024 but declined to 15.11 million litres per day by early October 2025. Meanwhile, domestic production rose from 6.43 million litres per day in September 2024 to 18.93 million litres per day in October 2025, surpassing imports for that month. Total daily supply fluctuated, peaking at 60.73 million litres in September 2024 and dropping to 34.04 million litres by October 2025, reflecting shifts in consumption and refinery operations.
The Dangote refinery, with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, has begun exporting petrol, diesel, and aviation fuel to countries like the United States and Saudi Arabia, with over 310 million litres of petrol available for local supply.
Despite this, importers continue to compete, accusing Dangote of undercutting prices. The refinery’s output, averaging 20 million litres daily, signals a shift toward self-sufficiency, though imports still dominate.
The data reflects Nigeria’s transition to a balanced petrol supply structure, driven by growing domestic refining capacity, but full independence from imports remains a challenge due to market competition and pricing dynamics.
