Escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly involving , and the , have forced several African countries to turn to Nigeria’s for fuel supplies amid growing disruptions in global oil flows.
The crisis has significantly affected the , a critical maritime route responsible for about 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply, leading to reduced output from Persian Gulf refineries traditionally relied upon by many African nations.
As a result, countries including , and have approached the Lagos-based refinery to secure alternative fuel supply arrangements.
Findings indicate that South Africa is negotiating a 12-month supply contract, while other nations are seeking stable volumes to cushion the impact of the supply squeeze.
President of the Dangote Group, , said the current situation has shifted market priorities from pricing to availability.
“Right now it is not about pricing, it’s about availability. I think the situation will continue for a while,” he said.
The $20bn facility, with a refining capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, currently allocates about three-quarters of its output to domestic consumption, leaving limited volumes for export despite rising continental demand.
Analysts say the refinery is playing a crucial role in reducing Africa’s dependence on imported refined products, even as it struggles to fully meet the continent’s energy needs.
They noted that no African country currently meets the benchmark set by the of maintaining at least 90 days of strategic petroleum reserves.
The development has intensified competition among buyers, with some countries already taking contingency measures, including fuel conservation and prioritisation of supply for essential services.
Industry observers say the shift signals a growing reliance on intra-African energy solutions, positioning Nigeria as a strategic supplier amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties in the Middle East.
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