Dangote Petroleum Refinery, one of Africa’s largest oil refining complexes, has announced a reduction in the wholesale price of petrol by 30 Nigerian Naira (N30), lowering the cost from N850 to N820 per liter at its depots. Effective August 12, 2025, the adjustment is part of the refinery’s broader strategy to stabilize Nigeria’s energy market and enhance affordability. Company spokesperson Anthony Chijiena confirmed the decision in a statement on Tuesday, emphasizing the refinery’s “unwavering commitment to national development” and its pledge to sustain reliable fuel supplies across the country.
The refinery, with a daily production capacity of 650,000 barrels, also revealed plans to roll out 4,000 trucks powered by compressed natural gas (CNG) for nationwide fuel distribution starting August 15. Chijiena described the initiative as a step toward “operational excellence and sustainable energy solutions,” aligning with global shifts toward cleaner transportation technologies. The dual announcement—price cuts and eco-friendly logistics—is expected to pressure independent fuel retailers to lower consumer pump prices in the coming weeks.
In Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, retail prices for petrol ranged between N885 and N970 per liter as of Tuesday, reflecting variations influenced by transportation and operational costs. Analysts anticipate the refinery’s direct distribution network, coupled with reduced ex-depot rates, will narrow this price gap. The ex-depot price, which refers to the cost at which marketers purchase fuel from the refinery, often serves as a benchmark for retail pricing.
The refinery’s move comes amid efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s energy independence, reducing reliance on imported petroleum products. It marks a significant pivot for the Dangote facility, which began operations in 2024 and has since scaled production to meet domestic demand. Industry observers note that the deployment of CNG trucks could mitigate distribution challenges caused by aging infrastructure while curbing carbon emissions—a critical consideration for a nation navigating both economic and environmental pressures.
While the immediate focus remains on price stabilization, the refinery’s long-term strategy underscores Nigeria’s push to modernize its energy sector. As one of the continent’s most ambitious industrial projects, Dangote Refinery is positioned to play a central role in shaping regional fuel markets, with potential ripple effects on trade and economic stability in West Africa. The coming weeks will test the practical impact of these measures, as marketers adjust their pricing models and consumers await relief at the pump.
