Dangote Refinery Quashes Shutdown Rumours, Confirms Petrol Price At N850 Per Litre.
Dangote Petroleum Refinery has firmly dismissed speculations of a shutdown, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining a steady supply of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, at an ex-depot price of N850 per litre. The announcement, made on Friday, 8 August 2025, puts to rest concerns sparked by a week-long suspension of petrol sales, which had fuelled uncertainty in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector.
The 650,000-barrel-per-day facility in Lekki, Lagos, resumed petrol distribution on Thursday after a brief hiatus, during which an internal memo instructed marketers to pause payments to the refinery’s gantry account. The suspension, attributed to operational adjustments, led to temporary supply disruptions and price volatility. However, the refinery has now stabilised operations, with the National President of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Abubakar Maigandi, confirming the resumption of sales at the stated price. The N850 per litre ex-depot price reflects a modest N30 increase from the previous N820, a 3.66% adjustment linked to fluctuations in global crude oil prices, particularly as the refinery relies on imported crude from the United States.
The refinery’s spokesperson, Anthony Chiejina, emphasised its dedication to supporting Nigeria’s energy security, stating, “Dangote Refinery remains fully operational, with sufficient reserves to meet domestic demand and surplus for export.” This comes amid ongoing challenges, including a reported 71.38% reliance on imported petrol between May and June 2025, as noted by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority. Despite this, the refinery continues to advocate for reduced import dependence, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s vision for a self-sufficient energy sector.
The price adjustment has raised concerns about potential pump price hikes, with some retail outlets in Lagos already selling petrol at N915 per litre. However, industry observers suggest that competition from other marketers, who recently offered depot prices as low as N815, could temper retail increases. The refinery has called on marketers to pass on any cost benefits to consumers, reinforcing its role in fostering a competitive domestic market.
As Nigeria navigates a complex energy landscape, Dangote Refinery’s swift response to shutdown rumours and its transparent pricing strategy signal a positive step towards stabilising fuel supply. The facility’s ongoing operations and strategic adjustments underscore its pivotal role in bolstering Nigeria’s energy independence.
