The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has raised the amount of crude oil it supplies to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, scheduling seven cargoes for May, up from five in previous months. This step is aimed at supporting domestic fuel production and reducing reliance on imported petroleum.

Sources in the trading sector confirmed the increase to Reuters, noting that the refinery will still receive five cargoes in April. The Dangote facility, which has a processing capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, requires between 13 and 15 cargoes monthly to operate at full capacity.

Limited local crude supply has previously forced the refinery to import oil, exposing it to fluctuating global prices driven by geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East. These challenges have contributed to record-high petrol prices in Nigeria.

NNPC is leveraging its international trading network to secure additional crude for the refinery at competitive market rates. A senior company official said the national oil firm remains committed to ensuring energy security and supporting local refining operations despite temporary supply constraints.

While the refinery has increased its petrol output, it currently meets just over two-thirds of Nigeria’s daily demand of around 60 million litres. Recent price adjustments at petrol depots have added further pressure on consumers.

Experts say that sustained crude supply at required volumes is essential for the Dangote Refinery to operate optimally and for Nigeria to reduce fuel import dependence. The move by NNPC could also impact the country’s crude export volumes, as more oil is directed to domestic refining amid tight global supply.

The Dangote Refinery, which began operations in 2024, is a key component of Nigeria’s strategy to strengthen local refining capacity, stabilize fuel prices, and improve energy security.