The Dangote Oil Refinery in Lagos, Nigeria, is set to purchase millions of barrels of US crude over the next year as it ramps up processing rates. This move was highlighted in a document seen by Bloomberg.
Why It Matters
The agreement for purchase of US Crude, underscores the refinery’s influence in global crude and fuel trading.
However as Africa’s largest producer nation, Nigeria’s reliance on overseas oil for its largest refinery raises questions about the country’s domestic oil production and the competitiveness of its crude against American supply.
This raises concerns about Nigeria’s ability to support its own refinery infrastructure and the implications for its oil sector
What They Are Saying
According to a trader of West African barrels, the tender for overseas oil by the Dangote refinery reflects the struggle of Nigerian crudes to compete with American supply.
There have not been any comment from Dangote officials on the US crude oil purchase
Bottom Line
The situation underscores the need for investment in Nigeria’s oil sector and highlights the importance of increasing domestic oil production. With multiple refineries set to become operational, including the Dangote and BUA refineries, there is a pressing need for Nigeria to ensure sufficient local crude oil supply to support these facilities. Failure to do so could hinder the development of the country’s refining capacity and perpetuate its reliance on overseas oil sources.