Nigeria petrol exports import reliance
Nigeria’s petrol exports surged to ₦371 billion in the first half of 2025, even as the country continues to depend heavily on imports to meet domestic consumption.
According to fresh trade data, refined petroleum products remain one of Nigeria’s top foreign exchange earners, despite the paradox of exporting fuel while spending billions of dollars annually on imports.
Energy experts argue that the situation reflects Nigeria’s weak refining capacity, with major refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna still largely inactive.
“Nigeria is in a resource trap — exporting what it can’t refine while importing to survive. Until local refineries run optimally, this imbalance will persist,” said Dr. Hassan Bello, an oil and gas analyst.
While the launch of the Dangote Refinery and planned rehabilitation of state-owned plants are expected to reduce import dependence, industry stakeholders warn that the country may continue spending scarce forex on petrol imports in the short term.
About the Author
