Dangote Refinery launched its direct fuel delivery scheme with over 1,000 CNG-powered trucks nationwide.
The program targets cheaper petrol, lower transport costs and wider access across key Nigerian states.
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery on Monday, September 15, 2025, launched the first phase of its direct fuel distribution scheme, deploying more than 1,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered trucks across Nigeria. This marks the start of an ambitious plan to use over 4,000 CNG trucks ordered from China to deliver fuel directly to filling stations nationwide.
Officials at the refinery said the program coincides with the anniversary of petrol production at the plant. It was initially slated to begin in August but was delayed due to shipping constraints from Asia. Over 1,000 vehicles have now arrived, with hundreds more expected each week, making it possible to commence operations immediately.
According to the company, the new distribution network aims to cut fuel transport costs, lower pump prices and curb inflationary pressures. Petrol will be loaded at N820 per litre at Dangote’s depot and is expected to retail at about N841 per litre in Lagos and neighboring South-West states, and N851 per litre in the Federal Capital Territory, Rivers, Delta, Edo and Kwara. The first phase targets these states before nationwide coverage begins.
The refinery noted that the shift to CNG-powered vehicles could save the Nigerian economy more than N1.8 trillion annually by reducing logistics costs and energy expenses.
Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) President Abubakar Shettima said many members have applied for direct supply and are ready to receive deliveries. “Our members have completed online registration for the program, and we are expecting the trucks to arrive from Monday,” he explained, adding that cheaper fuel prices would bring relief to ordinary Nigerians, which aligns with IPMAN’s objectives.
Shettima dismissed skepticism over the initiative, saying Nigerians would soon see the real impact once the scheme starts.
Not everyone has welcomed the move. The Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) has questioned the price cuts, describing them as potentially anti-competitive. Executive Secretary Olufemi Adewole alleged that Dangote offered petrol to foreign buyers at cheaper rates than to domestic marketers.
Dangote Group countered these claims, saying the fuel distribution scheme would proceed regardless of opposition. It also accused a leading CNG supplier, NIPCO, of sharply raising gas prices in a bid to frustrate the rollout. Despite this, the company reaffirmed plans to increase its CNG truck fleet to 10,000 units before the end of the year. NIPCO declined to comment on the allegation.
Dangote stressed that stabilizing the supply of petrol, diesel and cooking gas has already eased pressure on industries, transport operators and households. The refinery said it has generated over half a million direct and indirect jobs, improved local infrastructure and provided training for Nigerian engineers and technicians.
The new program is expected to benefit about 42 million micro, small and medium enterprises by reducing their energy costs, while also reviving dormant filling stations nationwide. Over N720 billion is being invested in the project, which will create opportunities for truck drivers, fuel attendants and station managers.
Dangote called on filling station operators, telecom firms and other large-scale fuel users to partner with the initiative to strengthen its impact and ensure its sustainability.
