Africa’s largest oil refinery, the Dangote Refinery, has ramped up exports of petrol and fertiliser to neighbouring countries as the continent grapples with fuel supply disruptions.

According to Reuters, the refinery, owned by Aliko Dangote, is now operating at full capacity of about 650,000 barrels per day. This increased output is being directed not only to meet Nigeria’s domestic demand but also to support other African countries affected by shortages linked to ongoing global conflicts.

Dangote said the refinery has already exported about 17 cargoes of gasoline to various African markets in March alone, with additional shipments expected. He noted that the facility is now actively targeting markets across West, Central and East Africa, a shift from its earlier export focus.

The refinery is also increasing exports of urea fertiliser, which has seen rising demand as countries look for alternative suppliers. Traditionally, much of this fertiliser was exported to markets such as the United States and South America, but recent supply disruptions have redirected trade flows towards Africa, Reuters reported.

The development comes at a time when fuel prices in Nigeria remain high despite the refinery reaching maximum production. Industry data shows that rising global crude oil prices continue to push up local fuel costs, limiting the immediate relief expected from increased refining capacity.

To address this, Dangote indicated that the refinery is seeking to purchase more crude oil priced in the local currency, the naira, which could help reduce production costs and stabilise fuel prices domestically.

Meanwhile, the state-owned Nigerian National Petroleum Company is reportedly increasing crude allocations to the refinery, with more cargoes expected in the coming months to sustain high output levels. The expansion of exports from the Dangote refinery is seen as a significant step in strengthening Africa’s energy security, particularly as global supply chains remain under pressure.