Nigeria, April 5 -- War in Iran has jolted energy markets, sparking a crisis far beyond the battlefield. This geopolitical clash exposed flaws in the production, refining, and distribution of fuel. Fortunately, Dangote's mega-refinery aided Nigeria.

At the center of the disruption is the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow maritime corridor through which nearly one-fifth of global oil and gas moves. With traffic severely constrained, the impact goes beyond rising prices. In many parts of the world, the issue is no longer affordability but outright availability.

A clear pattern is emerging. Countries with weak currencies, low reserves, and heavy fuel imports are most affected. In these nations, the crisis means empty petrol stations, rationed coo...