Nigeria’s $20 billion Dangote Refinery is steadily reshaping its supply network as it works toward consistent operations. For the first time, crude oil from Ghana has been delivered to the massive complex, marking a significant step in the facility’s diversification strategy. Industry data shows that the refinery processed around 610,000 barrels per day in August, equal to about 70 percent of its design capacity, an improvement on earlier performance levels that hovered closer to 60 percent.
The introduction of Ghana’s Sankofa grade into the refinery’s feedstock reflects a more flexible approach to sourcing. Sankofa is a medium-sweet crude with 29 API gravity and low sulphur content, making it a valuable addition to the mix. This move comes alongside shipments from Nigeria, Angola, Brazil, Equatorial Guinea, and even the United States, according to figures from market intelligence firms.
Executives at Dangote Industries had previously emphasized a commitment to prioritize Nigerian crude and gradually phase out reliance on imports. A company representative told Bloomberg earlier this year that the goal was to transition to 100 percent domestic supply before the end of 2025. However, market dynamics and supply constraints have pushed the refinery toward a more pragmatic path, where foreign barrels are supplementing Nigeria’s output to maintain steady throughput.
Analysts note that this shift does not necessarily signal a permanent departure from Nigerian crude. Instead, it underscores the operational challenges of a mega-project of this scale. Figures from Kpler show August receipts included multiple Nigerian cargoes, two U.S. VLCC shipments, and a single Ghanaian supply, reinforcing the idea that the refinery is actively balancing its intake sources.
Reports from Argus highlight that the refinery has surpassed many expectations this year, moving closer to its full 650,000 barrels per day design capacity. Industry watchers believe that the ability to adapt—by securing crude from multiple suppliers while keeping output levels high—is a sign of resilience rather than weakness.
The reliance on a wider supply basket also reflects broader global shifts. In July, U.S. light sweet crude briefly overtook Nigerian shipments in the refinery’s intake, showing how international trade dynamics and shifting sanctions policies are influencing Africa’s largest downstream facility.
Despite early doubts about possible technical setbacks, the refinery is proving more reliable with each quarter. Rising output, combined with new supply partnerships such as the one with Ghana, demonstrates how the project is gradually stabilizing its operations while navigating the complex realities of the oil market.
By positioning itself as a flexible buyer rather than a rigid one, the refinery continues to strengthen its role in Nigeria’s energy story. While questions remain about how quickly it can return to relying solely on Nigerian crude, the evidence suggests a deliberate strategy focused on ensuring stability, growth, and long-term sustainability in the face of global and regional market pressures.