Independent petroleum marketers have confirmed that the Dangote Petroleum Refinery is finalising plans to supply up to 600 million litres of petrol monthly to stabilise the domestic market and ease the persistent rise in pump prices.
The refinery, during a strategic meeting with key downstream operators this week, outlined a new distribution framework involving 20 selected marketers who will serve as primary off-takers. Each marketer is expected to lift a minimum of two million litres, forming a structured supply chain aimed at eliminating multiple intermediaries that drive price distortions.
The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) said the plan is designed to improve national product allocation and restore efficiency in delivery. “Once this structure takes effect, petrol availability will improve significantly and retail prices will start to ease,” association representatives confirmed.
The shortlisted marketers include major distribution groups such as A.Y.M. Shafa, A.A. Rano, NNPCL Retail, Salbas, and others. While the final list has not been officially released, industry leaders say implementation is imminent.
Despite these plans, pump prices in parts of the Federal Capital Territory continue to rise due to limited supply and depot pricing pressures. Some stations recently adjusted prices upward, with Optima Energy increasing from N945 to N955 per litre, A.A. Rano selling at N945, and A.Y.M. Shafa at N940.
Independent marketers attribute the latest increases to product loading delays at the refinery and price hikes by depot owners. According to IPMAN executives, depot owners raised ex-depot prices when Dangote temporarily halted fuel loading. “The moment they noticed Dangote was not loading, they increased their prices. But these conditions are temporary,” they assured, adding that supply is expected to resume.
In a separate move that may offer relief to transporters, logistics companies, and industrial users, the refinery has announced a reduction in the ex-depot price of diesel (Automotive Gas Oil). The gantry price has been cut by N50 from N960 to N910 per litre, effective October 15, 2025.
In a notice to customers, the refinery expressed appreciation for continued patronage and confirmed the adjustment as part of market support efforts.
For MSMEs. particularly those in transport, haulage, agro-processing, and manufacturing, consistent supply of petrol and reduced diesel costs could determine operating expenses in the months ahead. However, full market impact will depend on the speed of distribution rollout and how depot operators respond to Dangote’s pricing strategy.
The refinery’s next phase of operations will be closely watched as businesses seek signs of price stability and relief from rising energy costs.
