Dangote Plans Fuel Storage Terminal in Cameroon to Expand Refinery's Reach Across Central Africa

The Dangote Group is seeking to deepen its presence in Africa's downstream petroleum sector with plans to construct a petroleum products storage terminal in Cameroon.

The proposal, presented during a high-level meeting with Cameroonian officials, forms part of the company's strategy to expand the regional distribution network of the Dangote Refinery in Lekki, Lagos, which is currently Africa's largest single-train refinery.

Boosting Fuel Supply Across Central Africa

According to the proposal, the planned storage terminal would serve as a strategic hub for refined petroleum products exported from Nigeria.

The facility is expected to improve the availability of petrol, diesel and other refined products in Cameroon while also supplying neighbouring Central African countries, reducing dependence on imports from outside the region.

Although the project remains in the planning stage, discussions have also included the possibility of pipeline infrastructure to support the movement of refined petroleum products from the storage terminal to key markets.

Expanding the Dangote Refinery's Regional Footprint

Since reaching full commercial operations, the Dangote Refinery has steadily increased exports of refined fuel across Africa.

The proposed Cameroon terminal would further strengthen the refinery's position as a regional supplier, complementing exports already reaching several African markets. Analysts say the investment reflects Dangote's ambition to build an integrated fuel distribution network across the continent.

Meeting with Cameroonian Officials

The proposal was discussed in Yaoundé during a meeting between Devakumar Edwin, Vice President of Oil, Gas and Fertilisers at Dangote Group, and Cameroon Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute.

Both sides reportedly explored ways to improve fuel logistics, strengthen bilateral trade and support Cameroon's long-term energy security. However, no final investment decision or construction timeline has yet been announced.

Economic Benefits

If approved, the storage terminal could deliver several benefits, including:

• More reliable fuel supply in Cameroon.

• Faster distribution of refined petroleum products across Central Africa.

• Increased exports from Nigeria's Dangote Refinery.

• Stronger trade and economic ties between Nigeria and Cameroon.

• New employment and logistics opportunities linked to the project.

What Happens Next?

The project is still under discussion, and details such as investment value, storage capacity and construction timelines have not yet been made public.

Industry observers say the proposal underscores Dangote Group's broader strategy of transforming the Lekki refinery into a major supplier of refined petroleum products across Africa. If the Cameroon project proceeds, it could become one of the company's most important regional distribution hubs.