Petroleum marketers across Nigeria have confirmed that the Dangote Petroleum Refinery has set a lifting target of about 600 million litres of petrol as part of its latest supply round, signaling a significant step in the company’s gradual integration into the nation’s downstream market.The confirmation comes amid growing anticipation for the full rollout of locally refined petrol from the 650,000-barrel-per-day facility, which has been described as a game-changer for Nigeria’s energy sector and a catalyst for stabilizing domestic fuel supply.
According to reliable sources within the petroleum marketing sector, the refinery, located in Lekki Free Zone, Lagos, is currently coordinating logistics for large-scale petrol lifting to various depots and retail outlets across the country. The exercise, they said, is part of the refinery’s strategic plan to meet domestic fuel needs and support the Federal Government’s energy sufficiency drive.
Industry players revealed that the 600 million-litre target is designed to test distribution efficiency and prepare the market for consistent nationwide supply once the refinery begins full-scale operations. The move follows months of product testing, calibration, and regulatory approvals by relevant government agencies, including the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
A senior member of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) who confirmed the development said the refinery’s output has begun to reflect in supply chains, helping to ease pressure on petrol imports and stabilize prices in key markets.
“Dangote Refinery is ramping up production and distribution. The 600 million-litre target will enable marketers to assess logistics, storage, and delivery channels ahead of continuous supply. It’s a huge boost for the downstream sector,” the source said.
He added that marketers are already entering lifting agreements with the refinery under flexible payment and allocation terms designed to enhance accessibility and reduce supply bottlenecks.
Similarly, the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) commended the refinery’s progress, noting that its operation will reshape Nigeria’s energy landscape and reduce dependence on imported fuel.
DAPPMAN Executive Secretary, Olufemi Adewole, said the refinery’s petrol distribution would have a positive impact on the economy by reducing foreign exchange pressure, creating jobs, and encouraging domestic value addition.
“The 600 million-litre distribution phase is a sign that the refinery is ready to support national demand. Once consistent supply begins, we’ll see reduced reliance on imports and better price stability,” Adewole said.
He added that the refinery’s entry into the local petrol market aligns with the government’s strategy to achieve energy independence and curb the financial losses incurred from fuel imports.
The Dangote Group had earlier disclosed that the refinery’s operations were designed to meet 100 percent of Nigeria’s refined product needs, with surplus volumes earmarked for export to neighboring African countries. The facility is expected to produce petrol, diesel, aviation fuel, and polypropylene, among other petroleum derivatives.
Company officials say the refinery’s strategic approach to distribution is aimed at ensuring seamless transition from import-dependent supply to locally refined fuel. They explained that the 600 million-litre lifting plan would allow marketers to test infrastructure readiness, including depots, pipelines, and transport networks.
Energy analyst and Managing Partner at EnergyHub Nigeria, Dr. Balogun Adetayo, described the refinery’s supply schedule as a major confidence boost for the market. According to him, the move will help stabilize domestic pricing and reduce speculative activities that often trigger artificial scarcity.
“With Dangote Refinery’s gradual integration into the petrol market, we’re likely to witness improved availability and better pricing mechanisms. The refinery’s capacity is sufficient to meet local demand once it operates fully,” he said.
Adetayo also highlighted that the refinery’s operations will have far-reaching economic benefits, including lower logistics costs, improved refining margins, and reduced fiscal strain on the country’s foreign reserves.
The Federal Government has expressed optimism about the refinery’s growing role in Nigeria’s energy transition. Officials from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) said the refinery’s contribution would complement existing supply from imports while the country continues to expand domestic refining capacity.
An NNPCL representative who spoke anonymously noted that the corporation is working closely with the Dangote Group to ensure a smooth transition into full-scale petrol distribution. “The Dangote Refinery will help close the supply gap, reduce import bills, and enhance the stability of the downstream sector,” he said.
As the refinery prepares to ramp up operations, expectations remain high that its petrol output will mark the beginning of a new era for Nigeria’s fuel market. Stakeholders believe that once steady distribution begins, consumers will benefit from improved availability, reduced pump price volatility, and a more competitive downstream environment.
The 600 million-litre petrol lifting target underscores Dangote’s readiness to deliver on its promise of making Nigeria self-sufficient in refined petroleum products while strengthening the country’s position as a regional energy hub.
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