Ghana has moved to strengthen its domestic refining operations after the Tema Oil Refinery received one million barrels of crude oil from Nigeria.

The shipment, identified as Bonga crude, was delivered as part of efforts to restore stable refining activities at the state-owned refinery, which has faced years of shutdowns and operational challenges.

The crude cargo arrived aboard the vessel Cap Felix under a tolling arrangement involving Triangle Commodities Trading. Under the arrangement, third-party firms provide crude oil in exchange for a share of the refined petroleum products, helping the refinery reduce upfront procurement costs.

Bonga crude, produced from Shell’s offshore oil field in Nigeria, is known for its low sulphur content and easier refining process compared to heavier crude grades.

The latest delivery is expected to support the production of petroleum products including petrol, diesel, kerosene, aviation fuel and liquefied petroleum gas.

Tema Oil Refinery resumed limited operations late last year after remaining inactive for about four years. However, refining activities later slowed due to shortages in crude supply.

Industry analysts say sustained refinery operations could help Ghana reduce reliance on imported fuel products, improve energy security and ease pressure on foreign exchange reserves.

The development also places Ghana back in West Africa’s growing refining sector as regional competition continues to increase.