Dangote Petroleum Refinery has warned that petrol prices could soar to as much as N1,400 per litre if Nigeria continues to rely solely on fuel imports. The refinery stressed that large‑scale domestic refining is now a critical factor in stabilising the downstream petroleum market. It dismissed recent reports of a shutdown for maintenance as false and misleading, noting that any interruption in its operations would allow fuel importers to act without restraint and could trigger a sharp rise in prices.
The refinery’s statement highlighted that its ongoing operations have acted as a stabilising force, preventing such drastic price hikes. It attributed the alleged shutdown rumours to fuel importers whose commercial interests are threatened by domestic refining; these parties allegedly seek to exploit Nigerians and justify recent price increases. In reality, production remains ongoing, stable and uninterrupted, with the capacity to supply between 40 million and 50 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) daily.
On 4 January, the refinery produced 50 million litres of PMS and evacuated 48 million litres through its gantry, maintaining stock levels sufficient to cover more than 20 days of national consumption. Routine maintenance on specific units does not affect overall output because of the integrated design of the facilities. Units such as the Naphtha Hydrotreater, CCR Reformer and Hydrocracker continue to operate fully, producing key products for the domestic market.
Since mid‑December, the refinery has maintained a steady supply of PMS to the Nigerian market, with daily loading volumes verified by the regulator. It reaffirmed its ex‑gantry price of N699 per litre, which is available to all marketers and bulk consumers without discrimination. The refinery urged filling‑station operators and large‑scale users to patronise locally refined products, noting that this would help moderate prices and conserve foreign exchange.
Dangote Petroleum Refinery reiterated its commitment to energy security and a steady supply, advising the public to ignore false reports. By sourcing PMS locally, marketers can pass price relief on to consumers, enhance market stability and support Nigeria’s economic recovery and energy‑security objectives. The refinery will continue to act in the national interest, supplying high‑quality, locally refined petroleum products while supporting Nigeria’s economic stability, energy independence and industrial growth.
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