The House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream) has hailed the Dangote Petroleum Refinery’s recent performance as a major boost to Nigeria’s energy sector and a clear validation of ongoing reforms in the downstream petroleum industry.
In a significant milestone, Nigeria in March 2026 exported more refined petrol than it imported, marking the first time the country Africa’s largest crude oil producer has become a net exporter of refined fuel.
According to data from market intelligence firm Kpler, the Dangote Refinery exported 44,000 barrels per day (bpd) of petrol in March, while national imports dropped to 41,000 bpd, resulting in a surplus of about 3,000 bpd.
Crude supply to the 650,000 bpd Lekki-based refinery also rose to approximately 565,000 bpd during the month the second-highest throughput since it began operations in late 2023.
President and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, attributed the achievement to the economic and energy sector reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which he said created favourable conditions for domestic refining and restored investor confidence.
In a statement, Chairman of the House Committee, Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, described the development as a “national pride milestone” and a watershed moment for Nigeria’s downstream petroleum industry.
The committee noted that the transition from heavy reliance on imported fuel to net export status, though marginal, demonstrates the growing impact of private sector investment in fixing long-standing inefficiencies in the petroleum value chain.
Lawmakers expressed optimism that sustained performance by the refinery would ease pressure on foreign exchange, improve fuel availability, and strengthen the country’s energy security.
The committee urged regulatory agencies to maintain transparency and protect critical infrastructure, while reaffirming its commitment to providing legislative support for policies that promote domestic refining and position Nigeria as a leading energy hub in Africa.
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