Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced free delivery of petrol to six states across Nigeria, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, while maintaining its ex-depot price of 1,075 naira per litre.
The company said Wednesday that the initiative covers Lagos, Ogun, Rivers, Kaduna and Delta states, along with Abuja. The offer applies to customers purchasing at least 250,000 litres of petrol.
The move follows recent meetings between the refinery and stakeholders in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector, where discussions focused on cost-reflective pricing. Stakeholders expressed support for further reductions in fuel prices, which have been a major source of public concern amid inflation and rising living costs.
Dangote Refinery has cut its gantry price four times in recent weeks, bringing it down to 1,075 naira per litre. The President of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, Abubakar Maigandi, said retail pump prices have fallen by about 125 naira per litre in the past three weeks, with current prices ranging between 1,155 and 1,299 naira depending on location and marketer.
Analysts say the refinery’s pricing and delivery strategy could reshape Nigeria’s fuel market, which has long been dominated by imports and plagued by supply disruptions. Free delivery to major states may ease distribution costs for marketers and help stabilize pump prices.
Internationally, the development is being watched closely as Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer, seeks to reduce dependence on imported refined products. The Dangote Refinery, one of the world’s largest single-train facilities, is seen as a potential game-changer for energy security in West Africa.
Public reaction has been cautiously optimistic, with many Nigerians welcoming lower prices but urging sustained reductions that reflect the country’s oil wealth. Economists warn that while the refinery’s intervention may bring short-term relief, broader reforms in energy pricing and infrastructure remain critical for long-term stability.
The economic impact could be significant. Lower fuel costs may ease inflationary pressures, reduce transport expenses, and improve household purchasing power. By targeting Nigeria’s largest commercial hubs and political center, the refinery’s distribution strategy also strengthens domestic supply chains. Globally, the refinery’s operations could alter trade flows across West Africa, reduce import bills, and position Nigeria as a regional supplier of refined petroleum, with implications for global energy markets.
