Nigeria's Fuel Supply Transformation Driven by Dangote Refinery

Nigeria's fuel supply has seen significant improvements, particularly in December 2025, as reported by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). The supply of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, increased from 71.5 million litres per day in November to 74.2 million litres per day in December, while daily consumption rose to 63.7 million litres. Diesel (AGO) supply decreased slightly to 17.9 million litres per day, with consumption at 16.4 million litres. The cooking gas (LPG) supply averaged 5,201 metric tonnes per day, surpassing the consumption of 4,380 metric tonnes per day. The NMDPRA noted that petrol reserves improved significantly, rising from 16.65 days in November to 29.2 days in December.

Nigeria boosts fuel sufficiency as Dangote refinery drives supply surgeNigeria’s petrol, cooking gas supplies rise as fuel stocks strengthen – NMDPRANigeria fuel imports drop 54% in two years – Channel AfricaDangote Refinery Hits 50m Litres Daily, Assures Nigeria of Fuel Price StabilityAA RANO prepares Nigeria’s first unmanned fuel stationsSanwo-Olu Assures Armed Forces Of Unwavering Support To Protect Nigeria’s Sovereignty

The Dangote Refinery has been pivotal in enhancing Nigeria's fuel sufficiency, achieving an average capacity utilization of 62.94% and supplying 32 million litres of petrol daily against a planned 50 million litres. The refinery also contributed 5.78 million litres of diesel per day to the national supply. Despite state-owned refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna remaining shut down, the Dangote Refinery's performance has reshaped the fuel market, significantly reducing Nigeria's reliance on imported refined products. The refinery's operations are expected to expand further, with plans to increase capacity to 1.4 million barrels per day within three years.

Nigeria boosts fuel sufficiency as Dangote refinery drives supply surgeDangote Refinery Hits 50m Litres Daily, Assures Nigeria of Fuel Price StabilityNigeria’s petrol, cooking gas supplies rise as fuel stocks strengthen – NMDPRANigeria fuel imports drop 54% in two years – Channel AfricaAA RANO prepares Nigeria’s first unmanned fuel stationsSanwo-Olu Assures Armed Forces Of Unwavering Support To Protect Nigeria’s Sovereignty

The reduction in fuel imports has been notable, with Nigeria's spending on imported refined petroleum products dropping by 54% over two years, from nearly $14.6 billion in 2023 to just over $6.7 billion in 2025. This decline reflects a growing domestic supply and increased competition among fuel marketers. Retail petrol prices in December ranged from ?832.31 to ?900.49 per litre, with regional variations influenced by logistics costs and market dynamics. The NMDPRA emphasized that these developments signify Nigeria's strategic transformation in the energy sector, highlighting reduced imports and strengthened domestic production.

Nigeria fuel imports drop 54% in two years – Channel AfricaNigeria boosts fuel sufficiency as Dangote refinery drives supply surgeNigeria’s petrol, cooking gas supplies rise as fuel stocks strengthen – NMDPRADangote Refinery Hits 50m Litres Daily, Assures Nigeria of Fuel Price StabilityAA RANO prepares Nigeria’s first unmanned fuel stationsPlateau Governor Reaffirms Support for Armed Forces

While the improvements in fuel supply are acknowledged, some critics argue that the pricing structure remains a concern, particularly for low-income households. The variation in retail prices across regions raises questions about accessibility and affordability, especially in rural areas where logistics costs can be higher.

Nigeria’s petrol, cooking gas supplies rise as fuel stocks strengthen – NMDPRA

• “This verified data underscores Nigeria’s strategic transformation in the energy sector, emphasising reduced imports, strengthened domestic production, job creation, safety improvements, and economic stability.” — NMDPRA

Nigeria boosts fuel sufficiency as Dangote refinery drives supply surge

• “By introducing unmanned, automated stations, we are not just adopting technology; we are setting a new standard for reliability and speed in the Nigerian downstream sector,” — Mohammed Sule, General Manager, Retail at AA RANO

AA RANO prepares Nigeria’s first unmanned fuel stations

As Nigeria continues to enhance its fuel supply capabilities, the upcoming launch of automated unmanned fuel stations by AA RANO in January 2026 is expected to further revolutionize the fuel retail landscape, promoting efficiency and customer convenience. The ongoing developments in the energy sector will likely influence future policies and market dynamics, aiming for greater energy security and economic stability.

AA RANO prepares Nigeria’s first unmanned fuel stations