Dangote Petroleum Refinery has cautioned that reliance on fuel imports could lead to a significant increase in petrol pump prices, potentially reaching N1,400 per litre. The refinery made this statement while dismissing reports of a shutdown for maintenance, describing such claims as false and misleading.
In a recent statement, the refinery emphasized the importance of large-scale domestic refining in stabilizing the downstream petroleum market. It noted that without its operations, fuel importers would operate without restraint, potentially driving petrol prices up to N1,400 per litre in a post-subsidy environment. The refinery’s operations have served as a critical stabilizing force, preventing such price escalations.
The alleged shutdown report was deemed a deliberate fabrication promoted by fuel importers whose commercial interests are threatened by domestic refining. This misinformation aimed to justify recent unwarranted increases in petrol pump prices, imposing unnecessary hardship on Nigerians.
Dangote refinery assured that production remains ongoing, stable, and uninterrupted, with a capacity to supply between 40 million and 50 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit daily, subject to market demand. On January 4, the refinery produced 50 million litres of PMS and evacuated 48 million litres through its gantry, with current stock levels sufficient to cover over 20 days of national consumption.
The refinery clarified that routine maintenance on specific units does not affect overall output due to its integrated design. Other units, including the Naphtha Hydrotreater, CCR Reformer, and Hydrocracker, remain fully operational, producing key products for the domestic market.
Since mid-December, Dangote refinery has maintained a steady PMS supply to the Nigerian market, with daily loading volumes verifiable by the regulator. The refinery reaffirmed its ex-gantry price of N699 per litre, available to all marketers and bulk consumers without discrimination. It urged filling station operators and large-scale users to patronize locally refined products, which would help moderate prices and conserve foreign exchange.
By sourcing PMS locally, marketers can pass on price relief to consumers, enhance market stability, and support Nigeria’s economic recovery and energy security objectives. The refinery advised the public to ignore false reports and rely on verified information from credible sources. Dangote Petroleum Refinery will continue to prioritize energy security and steady supply, supporting Nigeria’s economic stability, energy independence, and industrial growth.
