The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has struck a deal with Dangote Refinery to directly access premium motor spirit (PMS), diesel, and other fuel products. This collaboration aims to boost fuel availability and affordability across Nigeria.
IPMAN National President, Abubakar Garima, announced the agreement on Monday in Abuja following a meeting of the Association’s National Working Committee. This partnership arrives just months after the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) suspended its plans to act as the sole distributor for the refinery’s products.
Garima expressed confidence that this collaboration will ease fuel distribution nationwide. “After meeting with Alh. Aliko Dangote and his management in Lagos, we’re pleased to confirm that Dangote Refinery will supply PMS, AGO, and DPK directly to IPMAN’s depots and retail outlets,” he stated. Garima underscored the importance of backing local refineries like Dangote’s, noting their potential to stabilize Nigeria’s foreign exchange market.
Push for Local Refining and Job Creation
Garima urged IPMAN members to support Nigerian refineries, including Dangote’s, to boost employment and align with President Bola Tinubu’s economic agenda. “Relying on local refineries for white products can create more jobs and promote the president’s renewed hope agenda,” he said.
While no specific pricing details were provided, Garima hinted that ongoing discussions with Dangote Refinery could yield competitive rates for petroleum products.
Expanding into CNG
IPMAN is also moving towards compressed natural gas (CNG) by setting up CNG refill stations nationwide. Garima assured that the association would work closely with the government to build the required infrastructure and incentives for a smooth CNG transition. “CNG has immense potential to boost Nigeria’s economy, and IPMAN is committed to supporting its development alongside the Federal Government,” he noted.
Key Insights
The IPMAN-Dangote deal is expected to reduce middlemen costs, ensure steady fuel supply, and support economic growth within Nigeria’s petroleum sector. Dangote Refinery, Africa’s largest, recently began producing diesel and aviation fuel, and it plans to directly supply over 30,000 IPMAN members and 150,000 outlets across Nigeria.
