Dangote Refinery has officially launched its export of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to Cameroon, marking a landmark achievement as the first-ever export of petroleum products from Africa’s largest oil refinery. This milestone signals the beginning of a new era of energy cooperation between Nigeria and Cameroon and reinforces the broader push for greater intra-African trade and self-reliance in the continent’s energy sector.
The export is the outcome of a strategic partnership between Dangote Refinery and Neptune Oil, a leading energy company based in Cameroon. The collaboration was hailed as a pivotal development for both countries. Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President and CEO of Dangote Group, emphasized that the export is not just a commercial transaction but a key step toward realizing his vision of an energy-independent Africa. “This marks the beginning of a future where African resources are refined and traded within the continent, benefiting the people of Africa,” Dangote said in a statement.
This historic first shipment of PMS comes without the involvement of international intermediaries, reflecting a growing trend of intra-African trade and collaboration. The deal is seen as an important milestone in boosting Cameroon’s energy security while also supporting local economic growth. Antoine Ndzengue, Director and Owner of Neptune Oil, expressed that the partnership would significantly enhance Cameroon’s energy infrastructure, noting, “This collaboration with Dangote Refinery marks a turning point for Cameroon, ensuring a reliable and cost-effective supply of energy for our growing needs.”
Both companies are committed to further developing this partnership, exploring additional initiatives that could lead to a more stable fuel supply across the region, helping to lower prices and create new economic opportunities in Africa. The export represents not only a commercial exchange but also a step towards broader regional economic integration.
For Nigeria, this export serves as a testament to the operational capacity of Dangote Refinery, which has a processing capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, making it the largest single-train refinery globally. With this milestone, the refinery not only meets domestic demand but is also positioning itself as a key player in the regional energy market.
This development underscores Dangote’s commitment to transforming Africa’s energy landscape. As the continent looks to reduce its dependence on external sources, Dangote Refinery’s role in driving energy self-sufficiency could become a model for other African nations. Similarly, Neptune Oil’s commitment to sustainable and independent energy solutions is expected to pave the way for a more resilient energy future for Cameroon and the broader region.