The Dangote Refinery fuel distribution rollout has stalled, leaving Nigerians in uncertainty after the facility failed to meet its August 15, 2025 deadline to begin nationwide supply of gasoline and diesel.
The $20 billion refinery, which processes 650,000 barrels per day, had earlier announced plans to deploy 4,000 compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles for fuel delivery. The N720 billion initiative was projected to save Nigerians N45 per litre in transport costs, totaling an estimated N1.2 trillion annually.
Aliko Dangote described the program as a “major shakeup” of Nigeria’s downstream sector aimed at restructuring petroleum distribution.
Reports indicate that the company has delivered about 1,000 trucks so far, up from 450 earlier in August.
Stakeholder reactions remain divided. Petroleum Products Retail Outlets owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) President Billy Gillis-Harry praised the refinery’s vision but warned of potential monopolistic dominance similar to the cement industry. He urged collaboration with existing marketers, depot owners, and transport unions to avoid job losses and disruption.
In contrast, IPMAN President Abubakar Maigandi expressed optimism, stating that transport cost elimination could reduce pump prices once distribution begins. Marketers, however, continue to wait for Dangote to clarify logistics and provide a new launch date.
For now, Nigerians remain in suspense over when the long-anticipated Dangote Refinery fuel distribution will finally begin.
