The Dangote Refinery is preparing to roll out nationwide fuel distribution through a fleet of 4,000 Compressed Natural Gas-powered trucks.
National President of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, Abubakar Maigandi,revealed that the refinery has begun numbering the trucks and could start distribution within the next week.
Originally, the Dangote Refinery had targeted August 15, 2025, for the deployment of the trucks to supply petroleum products directly to end-users, telecom companies, and other bulk consumers.
However, reports revealed that despite taking delivery of many trucks, the refinery did not commence direct fuel distribution as planned.
Speaking to journalists, Maigandi said, “I spoke with the management. They are currently numbering the trucks. Once that process is completed, in about a week, they will start the distribution.”
He added that the minor delay should not spark panic, assuring Nigerians that the direct-to-market approach will ultimately drive down pump prices by eliminating middlemen.
“The refinery’s direct-to-market strategy is designed to ease transportation costs and make fuel more affordable for consumers,” he noted.
Maigandi also highlighted that the recent acquisition of CNG-powered trucks valued at N720 billion aligns with the Federal Government’s Decade of Gas policy.
Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals confirmed in a statement, “The fleet of fuel tankers, being imported through Apapa Port, represents a significant capital investment estimated at N720 billion.’’
The company emphasized that this investment reflects its dedication to pioneering innovative solutions as the world’s largest single-train refinery expands operational capacity.
“The commencement of the initiative marks a groundbreaking development in Nigeria’s fuel distribution network. Given the complexities inherent in global supply chains, the delivery of these specialised CNG-powered tankers is indeed commendable. This approach ensures that we maintain operational efficiency while scaling up the fleet.
“Our unwavering commitment to this programme is reflected in our ongoing collaboration with key regulatory bodies and stakeholders to facilitate seamless deployment. We believe this initiative will significantly lower distribution costs and improve fuel availability for our customers nationwide.
“This innovative distribution model is expected to catalyse efficiency gains across Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector, fostering greater transparency, reducing transportation bottlenecks, and ultimately enhancing energy security for the nation.
“The privately owned refinery will absorb more than N1.07 trillion every year in fuel logistics expenses. The scheme is expected to significantly benefit over 42 million Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by lowering energy costs and improving profitability.
“This strategic programme is part of Dangote’s broader commitment to eliminating logistics bottlenecks, enhancing energy efficiency, promoting environmental sustainability, and supporting Nigeria’s economic development. Lower fuel distribution costs will reduce production expenses, alleviate inflationary pressures, and stimulate overall economic growth.”
