The 4 African countries buying petrol from the Dangote refinery

The Dangote refinery, the largest single-train facility in the world with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, is propelling Nigeria to the status of a key player in the global oil market. By exporting refined products - petrol, diesel and jet fuel - to African and international countries, it is transforming the energy dynamics of the continent and beyond, despite initial challenges in selling its production to local Nigerian traders.

Last month, Dangote marked a turning point by exporting two cargoes of jet fuel to Saudi Aramco, the Saudi oil giant and world leader in the sector. This success illustrates Nigeria's rise as an exporter of refined products, an ambition supported by this mega-refinery located near Lagos. But it is on the African continent that its impact is being felt most, with regular deliveries now being made to four key countries: Cameroon, Ghana, Angola and South Africa.

1. Cameroun
A pioneer in imports since Dangote, Cameroon has received 60,000 tonnes of petrol via Neptune, a delivery that reduces its historical dependence on European imports. This partnership stabilises fuel prices, strengthens energy security and stimulates the local economy by promoting intra-African trade.

2. Ghana
Faced with growing energy demand, fuelled by urbanisation and industrialisation, Ghana has found in Dangote an alternative to distant imports. Lower logistics costs mean more competitive prices, supporting key sectors such as transport and manufacturing.

3. Angola
As a major crude oil producer with limited refining capacity, Angola benefits from a regional source for its refined product needs. This collaboration illustrates the growing economic solidarity in Africa, enabling Luanda to diversify its supplies while optimising its oil production.

4. South Africa
Faced with the closure of local refineries, South Africa is diversifying its sources thanks to Dangote. This cooperation strengthens the resilience of its industrialised economy, particularly in mining and transport, while consolidating the links between the two African giants.

By establishing itself as a reliable supplier, Dangote is reducing Africa's dependence on foreign refineries, which are often located in Europe or the Middle East. This shift is fostering regional economic integration and positioning Nigeria as an energy hub. Despite a difficult start on the domestic market, where local traders were reluctant to absorb production, the refinery has managed to conquer international outlets, demonstrating its ability to compete on the world stage.

These advances underline a broader trend: Africa is taking control of its energy future. By supplying quality refined products at competitive prices, Dangote is not just transforming Nigeria; it is redefining the continent's energy balance, a role that is set to become even more important in the years ahead.