Africa’s richest man and President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has raised alarm over the growing smuggling of petrol from Nigeria into neighbouring countries, warning that the illegal activity poses a major threat to the nation’s economy and energy security.
Speaking on the disturbing trend, Dangote explained that the persistent diversion of petrol across Nigeria’s borders is undermining government efforts to stabilise local supply, affecting pricing, and creating artificial scarcity in some regions. He noted that the illegal export of petroleum products not only fuels a parallel market but also robs the country of critical revenue needed for development.
According to him, fuel smuggling has long been a challenge for Nigeria due to porous borders and weak enforcement, but recent activities show a significant spike driven by price differentials between Nigeria and neighbouring nations. Dangote emphasised that the situation could worsen if urgent action is not taken to strengthen border control, enhance monitoring systems, and prosecute economic saboteurs.
He further stressed the need for tighter regulatory oversight, coordinated security operations, and technological surveillance to curb the cross-border movement of subsidised or lower-priced Nigerian petrol.
Dangote also reiterated the commitment of the Dangote Refinery to ensuring stable supply once full domestic distribution begins, noting that combating smuggling is essential to achieving long-term energy stability and protecting national interests.
His warning has reignited calls for systemic reforms and renewed vigilance as Nigeria continues its push toward a more transparent and efficient petroleum supply chain.
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