The House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream) says the reported milestone by Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals marks a major boost to Nigeria’s energy sector and validates ongoing reforms in the downstream petroleum industry.
Nigeria reached a turning point in March 2026 when the Lekki-based refinery exported more refined petrol than the country imported, making Africa’s largest crude oil producer a net exporter of refined fuel for the first time.
Data from market intelligence firm Kpler showed the refinery exported about 44,000 barrels per day of petrol during the month, while national imports dropped to 41,000 barrels per day — the lowest level on record. The surplus of about 3,000 barrels per day signals a shift from Nigeria’s long-standing reliance on imported refined products despite being a major crude oil producer.
Crude supply to the 650,000 barrels-per-day facility rose to about 565,000 barrels per day in March, one of its highest levels since operations began in late 2023, indicating sustained large-scale utilization.
President and Chief Executive Officer of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, attributed the achievement to economic and energy reforms introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which he said improved the policy environment for domestic refining and boosted investor confidence.
In a statement issued by the committee’s chairman, Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, lawmakers described the development as a watershed moment for the downstream petroleum sector and a sign that local refining capacity is beginning to stabilize Nigeria’s energy supply chain.
The committee called the achievement a “national pride milestone,” saying it reflects the growing impact of private sector investment in addressing inefficiencies in the petroleum value chain.
Lawmakers said the shift from heavy import dependence to net export status, even if marginal, demonstrates the potential of domestic refining to transform Nigeria’s economy. They added that sustained progress could ease pressure on foreign exchange demand, improve fuel availability and strengthen energy security.
The committee also urged regulators to ensure transparency, efficiency and the protection of critical petroleum infrastructure to sustain the gains recorded.
It reaffirmed its commitment to supporting policies that promote domestic refining, encourage industrial growth and position Nigeria as a leading energy hub in Africa.
