Nigeria NNPCL Authorizes Major Marketers to Lift Petrol from Dangote Refinery

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has authorized major marketers to lift petrol from Dangote Refinery, but independent marketers remain excluded. The new arrangement raises concerns over pricing and access, prompting calls for more transparency and an open market for all petroleum players in Nigeria.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has given the green light for major petroleum marketers to begin lifting petrol from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, under the existing distribution agreement. According to the initial terms, NNPCL is the exclusive distributor of the refinery's petrol. The first batch of petrol, totaling 16.8 million liters, has already been lifted by NNPCL's retail arm. Reports indicate that several major marketers, including 11 Plc, have commenced distribution of the product to various outlets, primarily in Lagos.

However, independent marketers have been excluded from this new arrangement. Alhaji Abubakar Garima, the National President of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), confirmed that only NNPCL currently has access to the Dangote fuel, preventing independent marketers from participating. They are awaiting a new pricing structure from NNPCL before proceeding with purchases.

Meanwhile, independent marketers expressed concerns about being forced to resort to fuel imports to sustain their businesses. They are advocating for a more open sector that allows all players to participate, including calls for the Federal Government to hand over the Port Harcourt Refinery to independent marketers.

The situation remains tense, with many filling stations in Abuja and Lagos still waiting for petrol supplies. IPMAN representatives indicate that if current conditions persist, they may be compelled to import their petrol to continue operations. Dr. Muda Yusuf, CEO of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise, emphasized the need for transparency regarding the pricing and operational frameworks of this new arrangement.