Global energy crisis intensifies as Strait of Hormuz blockade enters 35th day; Nigeria finds resilience through Dangote Refinery

The 35-day blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has caused global fuel shortages, though Nigeria's Dangote Refinery provides a strategic buffer against the energy shock.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 6, 2026, 3:48 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from THISDAY

Thirty-Five Days of Maritime Paralysis

The global energy market has reached a critical tipping point following 35 days of a near-total blockade at the Strait of Hormuz. As the primary corridor for one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas supply, the prolonged closure has transitioned the crisis from one of high prices to one of absolute scarcity. Developed and developing nations alike are now struggling with the systemic failure of international fuel distribution, exposing the extreme vulnerability of countries that lack domestic refining capacity.

Asian Economies Face Acute Fuel Scarcity

South and Southeast Asia have emerged as the hardest-hit regions. In Pakistan, where 80 percent of oil is imported, major cities like Karachi and Lahore are facing severe shortages, forcing the government to close schools and implement work-from-home mandates to conserve fuel. Similarly, Sri Lanka has returned to a QR-based rationing system reminiscent of its 2022 financial crisis. In Nepal and the Philippines, the shortage of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) has disrupted basic household functions, forcing families to resort to firewood and electric stoves as stations close indefinitely.

Western Nations and Emerging Markets Under Pressure

The shock has not been confined to developing states. In Europe, the United Kingdom has issued formal fuel shortage warnings, while Germany and France face tightening supplies and soaring costs. The United States has begun deploying strategic measures to stabilize its domestic market, and China has accelerated a massive stockpiling effort to buffer against a potentially year-long disruption. In Africa, even relatively stable markets like South Africa are reporting "dry pumps" at numerous stations, signaling a breakdown in the regional supply chain.