Aliko Dangote, the owner of the Dangote Refinery, has announced that petrol produced at his facility could be available in filling stations across Nigeria within the next 48 hours. This development hinges on finalizing agreements with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), a process that could be completed imminently.
“Our PMS (Premium Motor Spirit) can be in filling stations within the next 48 hours, depending on NNPCL,” Dangote stated. He added that the petrol pricing structure, crafted and approved by the Federal Executive Council under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is nearing finalization.
Dangote expressed confidence in the quality of the petrol from his refinery, assuring Nigerians that they will benefit from superior fuel that will enhance the longevity of vehicle engines. “It’s a celebration day for Nigerians,” he declared. “The quality here will match that of anywhere in the world; US, America, we will make sure that nobody will beat us in terms of quality.”
The refinery, which began operations in December with a capacity of 350,000 barrels per day, is poised to ramp up to its full capacity of 650,000 barrels per day by year’s end. The facility has already commenced the supply of diesel and aviation fuel, with petrol now set to join the list.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with energy challenges and soaring petrol prices following the removal of subsidies in May 2023, the entry of Dangote’s refined petrol into the market could signal a significant shift in the country’s fuel landscape. The development is expected to reduce the country’s reliance on imported fuel and lower the price of petrol.
