On May 22nd, 2023, President Buhari officially commissioned the Dangote Refinery in Lagos, marking the world’s largest single-train refinery’s debut. Boasting a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, this refinery aims to meet Nigeria’s entire demand for refined petroleum products and even have a surplus for export.

Aside from fulfilling domestic needs, the refinery is set to generate numerous employment opportunities, enhance fuel supplies across Africa, and boost Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings through product exports. As part of a $20 billion complex that includes a fertilizer plant and power station, the Dangote Refinery holds immense potential for the Nigerian economy and the downstream petroleum market in Africa.

This achievement signifies a significant milestone for Nigeria, as it reduces its dependence on fuel imports and saves foreign exchange. During the plant’s commissioning, the exchange rate stood at approximately N750/$1 on the black market.

So, how exactly can the refinery contribute to a stronger naira? Here are several potential ways:

1. Reduction in fuel imports: By producing sufficient petrol, diesel, jet fuel, and kerosene for local consumption, the refinery will diminish the need for fuel imports, thereby lowering the demand for dollars. Consequently, this reduced demand for foreign currency can alleviate pressure on the naira exchange rate.

In 2022 alone, Nigeria spent about N10.1 trillion ($23 billion) on importing petroleum products, imposing significant pressure on foreign currency demand, particularly the dollar. By curbing the necessity for fuel imports through the Dangote Refinery’s operations, the demand for dollars in this sector would decrease, contributing to stronger naira.

2. Exporting refined crude oil: Operating as a large-scale refinery, Dangote has the potential to increase production and exports of refined petroleum products, generating foreign exchange earnings for Nigeria and augmenting dollar supply in the foreign exchange market. Exporting excess refined products to other African countries could bolster Nigeria’s reserves, stabilize or strengthen the naira, boost investor confidence, and fortify the currency’s value.
3. Increased foreign exchange reserves: As the Dangote Refinery produces more fuel domestically, Nigeria’s reliance on imported fuel will decrease, conserving foreign exchange reserves. Higher reserves instill stability and confidence in the currency, potentially impacting the exchange rate positively. Nigeria’s current external reserves stand at approximately $35 billion, representing only six months of imports.
4. Mitigation of inflation-related currency depreciation: The refinery’s operation can contribute to exchange rate stability by reducing imported inflation and associated costs. Nigeria presently depends on imported refined petroleum products, which can lead to inflationary pressures due to higher international trade expenses.

However, with increased domestic production capacity from the refinery, Nigeria can become more self-sufficient in meeting fuel demands, reducing the need for costly imports. Decreased dependence on imports can help mitigate the impact of imported inflation, as locally produced petroleum products would be less influenced by global market dynamics.

Moreover, eliminating expenses related to imports, such as shipping and customs duties, could potentially reduce the overall cost of fuel consumption for Nigerians. This cost reduction would positively impact consumers, enhance purchasing power, and contribute to a more stable exchange rate.

5. Attracting foreign investments: The establishment of Dangote Refinery not only reduces imported inflation and associated costs but also has the potential to attract foreign investments, further strengthening exchange rate stability. The presence of a significant refinery signifies Nigeria’s commitment to developing domestic refining capacity, instilling confidence in international investors.

The refinery’s scale and strategic importance in the oil and gas sector make Nigeria an attractive investment destination. The increased foreign direct investment brings in foreign currency inflows, bolstering the country’s foreign exchange reserves