The Dangote Refinery has made history by shipping its first-ever petrol cargo to the United States, signaling a new chapter for Nigeria’s refined product exports.
Global analytics firm Kpler and market sources confirmed that the vessel Gemini Pearl departed the Lekki-based refinery on August 26, carrying about 300,000 barrels of gasoline. The cargo is currently heading toward the US, with potential offloading points at the Port of New York or New Jersey.
This is the first direct Nigerian petrol shipment to the US, although the refinery has previously exported consignments to other regions. In June and July, Dangote dispatched three LR2 cargoes—two bound for the Middle East Gulf and one for Singapore.
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Why This Shipment Matters
Experts believe the move reflects an arbitrage strategy, as RBOB gasoline prices on the US Atlantic Coast have surged while stockpiles in PADD 1 (East Coast) remain limited.
The refinery has also supplied the Middle East Gulf during shortages, showcasing its growing role as a flexible global supplier. Analysts suggest Europe could be the next destination if the refinery’s residual fluid catalytic cracking (RFCC) unit improves efficiency.
Oil Prices and Nigerian Market Impact
Oil prices saw a significant uptick on Tuesday:
Brent crude rose 1.63% to $69.26 per barrel
WTI jumped 2.78% to $65.79 per barrel
This global surge has already translated into higher ex-depot prices across Nigeria:
Lagos: Rainoil & NIPCO – ₦850/litre
Warri: Matrix – ₦865/litre
Calabar: Matrix – ₦870/litre
Port Harcourt: Sigmund – ₦870/litre
With this groundbreaking US-bound shipment, Dangote Refinery has positioned itself as a strategic player in international fuel markets, potentially reshaping Nigeria’s economic influence worldwide.
