By Zara Maisango
In a significant milestone, Nigeria's Dangote Refinery has successfully exported its locally produced jet fuel to major international destinations, including airports in London, Iceland, and Tenerife. Notably, Heathrow Airport in the UK has received shipments of this Nigerian-made aviation fuel, underscoring the refinery's expanding global reach.
Between January and October 2024, a substantial portion of the refinery's output was delivered to the Lome transshipment hub off Togo. South Korea emerged as the largest single export destination, receiving approximately 23,000 barrels per day of naphtha. Additionally, significant volumes of gasoil have been exported to Ghana and other West African nations from the $20 billion mega refinery.
These developments have positioned Nigeria as a net exporter of jet fuel, naphtha, and fuel oil. Projections indicate that by next year, Nigeria could export nearly 50,000 barrels per day more gasoil from Lagos than it imports, with volumes expected to almost triple by 2026.
In a strategic move to bolster the domestic aviation sector, the Federal Government has designated Dangote Refinery as the exclusive supplier of Jet A1 fuel for Nigeria's airline operators. This decision aims to alleviate pressure on foreign exchange reserves and stabilize fuel prices by conducting transactions in local currency.
The Dangote Refinery, with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, commenced operations in April 2024, initially producing jet fuel and diesel. Following its domestic supply, the refinery began exporting jet fuel, with its first shipment departing for Europe in May 2024.
These achievements underscore the refinery's role in transforming Nigeria's energy landscape and its growing influence in the global oil market.
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