Nigeria’s Dangote refinery, Africa’s largest, is now positioned to expand its fuel exports to European markets, offering a potential alternative amid ongoing global oil market disruptions linked to the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran. The development comes as European Union (EU) countries seek stable fuel supplies that are less exposed to geopolitical risks, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz, a key transit point for global oil shipments.

According to the Dutch daily De Telegraaf, the Dangote Group, led by billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote, has confirmed that its refinery in Lagos is ready to meet increasing demand from outside Africa. The refinery has already exported 450,000 tons of fuel to twelve African nations experiencing local shortages. Anthony Chiejina, a spokesperson for the Dangote Group, emphasized the company’s capacity to serve a wider international market. “We are ready for increased demand from Europe,” Chiejina said, noting that the refinery produces and supplies gasoline and diesel in roughly equal quantities.

The timing of this expansion is significant. European countries have faced heightened uncertainty over fuel imports because of potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, where a large portion of global oil transit occurs. Concerns over the conflict involving Iran have prompted EU nations to look for reliable sources of refined fuels that are geographically less vulnerable to geopolitical tensions.

Fuel demand across the European Union is substantial. According to De Telegraaf, the bloc consumes over ten million barrels per day. Road transport alone accounts for more than five million barrels, while aviation and shipping consume nearly two million barrels combined. Industrial uses and petrochemical production account for the........

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