Dangote Refinery Denies Selling Petrol at N898 Per Litre
The Dangote Refinery has firmly denied claims by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) that it sold premium motor spirit (PMS) at N898 per litre. In a statement issued on Sunday, September 15, 2024, the refinery called the claim “misleading and mischievous.” This denial comes in response to a statement from NNPCL’s spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye.
Refinery Accuses NNPC of Undermining Achievements
Anthony Chiejina, the Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer of Dangote Group, stated that the NNPC’s remarks were an attempt to undermine the refinery’s significant achievements in tackling Nigeria’s energy challenges. Chiejina urged the public to disregard NNPC’s claims, reassuring Nigerians of the refinery’s commitment to addressing the nation’s fuel scarcity.
Dollar-Based Transactions Confirmed
Chiejina clarified that Dangote Refinery sold PMS to NNPCL in U.S. dollars, as the current stock of crude was purchased in dollars. He noted that this resulted in considerable savings compared to what the NNPC had been paying for imports. Additionally, the refinery will not implement naira-based sales until October 1, 2024, when the newly appointed Technical Sub-Committee, set up by President Bola Tinubu, will determine official pricing.
Committee to Oversee Local Pricing
The Technical Sub-Committee is tasked with regulating the pricing structure for local refineries based on naira transactions. Chiejina emphasised that the committee’s work will be vital in ensuring transparency and efficiency in the pricing process, particularly as the refinery seeks to contribute to Nigeria’s long-term energy security.
Independent Marketers Seek Direct Access
Meanwhile, the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has called for direct access to the Dangote Refinery. Chinedu Ukadike, IPMAN’s National Publicity Secretary, argued that while NNPCL has invested in the refinery, opening access to independent marketers could significantly lower fuel costs for consumers.
Petrol Distribution to Improve
Chiejina assured Nigerians that Dangote Refinery’s operations will ensure widespread availability of petrol across all regions, even in remote areas. The refinery’s efforts aim to stabilise the market and end years of fuel shortages that have affected the country.
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