Dangote Group is exploring the construction of a petroleum products storage depot in Cameroon that could eventually be connected to a regional pipeline network, as the company accelerates plans to expand the distribution of refined fuels across Central Africa.
The proposed facility would serve as a strategic hub for storing and distributing fuel from the Dangote Refinery in Lagos to Cameroon and neighbouring countries.
Company executives said the project forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen fuel supply infrastructure across Africa and improve access to refined petroleum products in underserved markets.
Dangote is considering linking the depot to a pipeline network that would transport refined products deeper into Central Africa, reducing dependence on road transportation and lowering fuel delivery costs. While the project remains at the feasibility stage, the company believes pipeline infrastructure could significantly improve supply reliability and support economic activity across the region.
The initiative builds on Dangote’s growing presence in African fuel markets following the commencement of exports from its 650,000-barrel-per-day refinery. Cameroon has already begun importing petrol from the refinery, while several other African countries have also turned to Dangote for refined petroleum products as they seek to diversify supply sources.
The company has been expanding its regional logistics network through investments in marine terminals, storage facilities and pipeline infrastructure. Earlier this year, Dangote announced plans to develop fuel storage projects in Namibia and examine cross-border pipeline is opportunities linking Southern African countries to strengthen regional fuel distribution.
The Cameroon proposal also follows discussions between Dangote Group and the state-owned Sonara refinery, which has struggled to resume operations since a fire severely damaged its facilities in 2019. While the proposed storage depot would operate independently of Sonara, it could complement future efforts to improve fuel supply and distribution within Cameroon.
Africa remains heavily dependent on imported refined petroleum products despite being a major crude oil producer. Dangote believes expanding regional storage and pipeline infrastructure will improve energy security, reduce transportation costs and shorten delivery times, particularly for landlocked countries that currently rely on fuel transported by road over long distances.
The planned investment underscores Dangote’s ambition to build an integrated pan-African fuel distribution network anchored by its Lagos refinery. If implemented, the Cameroon depot and pipeline project would strengthen the company’s foothold in Central Africa while supporting broader efforts to improve regional energy infrastructure and facilitate cross-border trade in refined petroleum products.
Emmanuel Abara Benson is a business journalist and editor covering artificial intelligence, global markets, and emerging technology.
He has previously worked with Business Insider Africa and Nairametrics, reporting on finance, startups, and innovation.
His work focuses on AI, digital economy, and global tech trends.
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