In a significant development, petroleum product marketers have lifted a total of 518,500 metric tonnes of diesel and aviation fuel (Jet A1) from Dangote Refinery, accounting for 60 percent of the national truck-outs over the past five months. This substantial volume of product distribution highlights the refinery’s crucial role in meeting Nigeria’s energy demands.
Documents from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) reveal that independent local marketers, including Asharami, MRS Oil and Gas, AA Rano, Rainoil, Prudent, NIPCO, Aym Shafa, and Danmarna, have been actively involved in the lifting operations from April to September. The products consist of 489,500 metric tonnes of diesel and 29,000 metric tonnes of aviation fuel.
These products have been distributed to various Nigerian ports, with significant quantities allocated as follows:
- Lagos: 17 shipments
- Warri: 6 shipments
- Port Harcourt: 2 shipments
- Calabar: 1 shipment
In an interview with Vanguard, Olufemi Adewole, Executive Secretary of the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), emphasized the importance of transparency in the sector. Adewole asserted that a transparent operational framework is essential for ensuring the availability, reliability, and accessibility of petroleum products across the country.
He also addressed recent allegations regarding a boycott of Dangote Refinery’s petrol. According to Adewole, such claims are inaccurate. He explained that petroleum marketers are still awaiting government clearance on the modalities for the offtake of petrol from the refinery. “DAPPMAN, as evidenced by the patronage of various products from the Dangote Refinery by its members, remains committed to meeting Nigeria’s energy needs and supports efforts to prevent monopolies that could hinder economic growth and development,” Adewole stated.
Adewole underscored that global trading of petroleum products is driven by price and quality. He noted, “Offtake will, in keeping with the laws of demand and supply, gravitate towards sources where products can be bought at a lower price, with better quality and seamless accessibility.”
He reassured the public that DAPPMAN and other marketers are dedicated to providing high-quality fuel solutions and ensuring the sustainability of the petroleum sector in Nigeria. The organization remains focused on contributing to the country’s energy needs while navigating the complexities of the market.
This development reflects the ongoing efforts of Nigerian marketers to stabilize the energy sector and ensure a steady supply of petroleum products amidst regulatory and operational challenges.
