Nigeria recorded a sharp rise in petrol imports in June after the Dangote Petroleum Refinery reduced supplies to the domestic market while increasing exports to earn more foreign exchange.

According to data released by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), the country imported an average of 18.1 million litres of petrol per day in June, up significantly from 5.6 million litres per day recorded in May.

The increase in imports reflects a shift in market supply, with the Dangote refinery reportedly prioritising exports over local sales as it seeks to maximise foreign currency earnings.

The development comes despite expectations that the 650,000-barrels-per-day refinery would significantly reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported petroleum products. However, the decline in domestic supply has prompted marketers to increase fuel imports to meet local demand.

The latest figures highlight the continued role of imported petrol in stabilising supplies, even as domestic refining capacity expands. Industry observers say the trend underscores the need to strike a balance between export opportunities and adequate fuel availability within the Nigerian market.