Dangote Petroleum Refinery, Africa’s largest oil processing facility near Lagos, has increased its importation of crude oil from the United States to meet rising processing demands. This move comes as the refinery struggles to source enough crude oil locally due to Nigeria’s ongoing production challenges.

A spokesperson for Dangote Refinery explained, “The increased use of US oil reflects the refinery’s rising processing levels and a reduction of Nigerian crude that’s available to buy.” Data shows that about one-third of the refinery’s crude supply in 2025 has come from the US, with a strong preference for West Texas Intermediate (WTI) Midland grade.

The refinery’s decision to source more from the US also aligns with unique market conditions, including weaker demand for WTI Midland in Asia and ample supplies of competing crude grades. Vessel tracking data indicates Dangote Refinery will receive roughly 14 million barrels of WTI Midland during June and July, with trading giant Vitol Group as a key supplier.

This reliance on imported crude highlights Nigeria’s continuing struggle to meet domestic oil production targets. According to the May 2025 OPEC Monthly Oil Report, Nigeria’s crude output averaged 1.468 million barrels per day in Q1 2025, well below the 2 million barrels per day target set in the federal budget. The report attributes production shortfalls to underinvestment, pipeline vandalism, and operational disruptions.

Despite these hurdles, Nigeria remains Africa’s leading crude oil exporter, but the gap between production and refinery needs is driving decisions like Dangote’s increased imports from abroad.