West Africa imports 69% petrol despite domestic refining boom – NMDPRA
The Chief Executive, Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, NMDPRA, Farouk Ahmed, said despite increased refining, West African nations, including Nigeria import nearly 69 per cent of Premium Motor Spirit, PMS, also known as petrol from the global market.
Speaking at the ongoing Global Commodity Insights Conference on West Africa’s refined fuel market, jointly organised by the NMDPRA and S&P Global Commodity Insights in Abuja, Nigeria.
He said: “The regional supply of fuels in West Africa has grown through improved refining capacities in Nigeria, Ghana, Niger, Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire, which currently stands at 1.335 million barrels per day.
“Our 2025 statistical data for fuel supply in the West African region reveals that 2.05 million MT per month of Gasoline is being traded, consisting of 1.44 million MT (69 per cent) imports and 0.61 million MT (31 per cent) refinery contribution from the region.”
He said: “These global benchmarks do not fully reflect the unique supply chain peculiarities, logistics costs, and economic realities of the African continent,” he stated.
“As a region, we must begin to define our own pricing reality. Establishing a regional price index will not only improve price discovery and transparency but also deepen market development and enhance energy security.”
Commenting on the impact of reforms, he said: “These reforms are attracting investment into trade zones, digital market platforms, and refining projects,” he noted, adding that Nigeria is fast emerging as a key midstream and downstream trade and logistics centre for the entire West African coast.
“Nigeria’s refining sector is undergoing massive transformation, with projects like the Dangote Refinery and ongoing rehabilitation of state-owned refineries expected to boost local production significantly.”
