By Muhammad Mamman
Dangote Refinery has reaffirmed that its planned free fuel distribution will go ahead despite mounting criticism from oil and gas associations.
In a statement issued last night, the management accused certain industry groups of attempting to sabotage the initiative, describing their opposition as a “calculated campaign of economic sabotage” driven by vested interests threatened by progress.
Dangote pointed to past industry failings, recalling the January 2022 incident in which the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) revealed that a Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) member supplied petrol with more than 15% methanol—far above acceptable limits. The adulterated fuel reportedly caused widespread engine damage, yet no transparent government inquiry was carried out.
The refinery emphasised that its operations have positioned Nigeria as a reliable source of affordable petrol feedstock for West Africa, even while importing over 60% of the crude it processes. Remarkably, it is able to supply petrol at prices lower than international benchmarks across sub-Saharan Africa.
The statement further alleged that some market players remain fixated on refined fuel imports, even engaging in round-tripping—re-importing Dangote’s petrol from Togo into Nigeria at inflated prices—undermining claims that they are the country’s primary suppliers.
“Despite these distractions, our commitment to providing affordable fuel, including free distribution, remains unwavering,” the refinery declared.
