Nigeria’s petrol supply increased to 40.1 million litres per day in March 2026, up from 39.5 million litres in February, according to the latest figures from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority.
Domestic production accounted for 34.2 million litres per day, while imports contributed 5.9 million litres. The rise in imported volumes marks a recovery despite a limited number of licences being issued during the period.
Output from the Dangote Refinery reached 48.2 million litres per day in March, with a capacity utilisation rate of 93.62 per cent. However, its contribution to domestic supply fell for the third consecutive month, dropping to 34.2 million litres per day from 36 million litres in February and 40.1 million litres in January.
Petrol imports nearly doubled month-on-month, climbing to 5.9 million litres per day from 3 million litres in February. This increase suggests a cautious return of importers to the market, aimed at filling supply gaps.
On the demand side, consumption eased significantly, falling to 47.3 million litres per day in March from 56.9 million litres in February. This decline, coupled with the rise in supply, points to reduced market pressure during the period. Average pump prices stood at ₦1,249.01 per litre in Lagos, ₦1,286.81 in Abuja, and ₦1,280.43 in Enugu.
Despite the improved supply, a gap remained between total supply and consumption, with demand outstripping availability by 7.2 million litres per day. This shortfall could place strain on inventories and downstream distribution networks.
Compared to March 2025, average daily petrol supply fell sharply to 40.1 million litres from 51.6 million litres, a decline of 11.5 million litres or about 22.3 per cent. On a month-on-month basis, supply showed a modest recovery, supported by higher import volumes.
The figures underscore the continuing role of imports in stabilising supply, particularly at times when domestic production fluctuates and demand patterns shift.
