Nigeria Halts Gasoline Import Licenses, Strengthening Dangote Refinery’s Position: Western Media
Nigeria Halts Gasoline Import Licenses, Strengthening Dangote Refinery’s Position: Western Media
Nigeria's energy market is undergoing a transformation as regulators halt the issuance of new gasoline import licenses, allowing imports only when domestic supply is insufficient. This move is seen as a significant boost for Dangote Refinery, which has long advocated that local production can meet the country’s growing demand.
Despite Nigeria's status as a major crude oil producer, it has historically relied heavily on imported petrol. The new policy aims to shift this dynamic by providing more space for local refineries to serve the domestic market.
No new gasoline import licenses have been issued since February, as regulators have started enforcing the country's petroleum law more rigorously, according to media reports.
This shift is important because Dangote Refinery already plays a significant role in the domestic supply.
In February, it delivered 36.5 million liters of petrol and 8 million liters of diesel, while Nigeria’s average daily petrol consumption decreased from 60.2 million liters in January to 56.9 million liters in February.
This decline helped regulators determine that local supply is now adequate.
By increasing domestic refining, Nigeria can reduce its reliance on imports, ease pressure on foreign currency demand, and enhance energy security across Africa.
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