Nigeria Slips Back Into Net Petrol Imports as Dangote Refinery Maintenance Disrupts Output

Nigeria became a net importer of petrol again in May. Fuel imports hit their highest level in four months. This has raised concerns about the country’s continued reliance on foreign fuel despite the Dangote Refinery.

New data from Argus Media showed petrol imports averaged 57,000 barrels per day in May. Exports stood at only 23,000 barrels daily. The figures reversed the net export position Nigeria recorded in March and April.

Maintenance at Dangote Refinery Slowed Production

The sharp rise in imports was linked to maintenance at the Dangote Refinery in Lekki, Lagos. Industry sources said the Residual Fluid Catalytic Cracker, a key unit for gasoline production, underwent maintenance. This temporarily reduced petrol output.

As local production slowed, marketers turned to imported petrol, mainly from Europe. Norway became Nigeria’s largest supplier in May, followed by Italy and France.

NNPC and Dangote Both Imported Fuel

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and Dangote Refinery both imported fuel in May. NNPC brought in about 11,000 barrels per day. Dangote accounted for roughly 27,000 barrels daily. This created an unusual situation where Dangote remained Nigeria’s largest local producer while also being a major importer.

The import surge followed fresh import allocations approved by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority for the second quarter. Independent marketers like AA Rano, AYM Shafa, Bono, Matrix, NIPCO and Pinnacle received permits to import products and maintain supply stability.

Refinery Operations Did Not Stop Completely

Despite the maintenance work, the refinery did not halt operations. Large volumes of blending materials and feedstocks, including naphtha and condensate, were delivered to support production and optimise output.

Analysts say the development highlights the fragile nature of Nigeria’s shift from a fuel-importing nation to a refining hub. The Dangote Refinery has reduced reliance on imported petrol since starting operations. But temporary shutdowns and adjustments can still create shortages, forcing marketers back to foreign suppliers.

Industry Optimism Remains

Industry experts believe the setback may be temporary. Dangote Industries confirmed the refinery’s nameplate capacity has increased from 650,000 barrels per day to 700,000 barrels per day. This is expected to strengthen petrol production once all units resume full operations.

There are projections that the refinery’s planned expansion to about 1.45 million barrels per day could position Nigeria as a major petrol export hub in Africa.

For now, May’s import figures show a hard reality: Nigeria’s journey to full fuel self-sufficiency is still unfolding.