The Nigerian National Petroleum Company has increased crude oil supply to the Dangote Refinery to 10 cargoes, in a bid to boost local refining capacity and improve fuel availability in Nigeria.

Business magnate Aliko Dangote disclosed that the deliveries were made in March, with a mix of naira- and dollar-denominated transactions. The increase represents a step up in efforts to support the refinery’s operations amid ongoing supply constraints.

Despite the rise, Dangote noted that the refinery requires about 19 cargoes monthly to run at optimal capacity, meaning it still relies partly on imported crude—an arrangement that raises operational costs.

He also expressed concern that some international oil companies prioritize exports over local supply, limiting access for domestic refiners and affecting Nigeria’s energy security.

The development underscores ongoing efforts to strengthen local refining, reduce dependence on fuel imports, and stabilize prices in Africa’s largest oil-producing nation.