The Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) says its members depend solely on the Dangote Refinery for petrol, as NNPCL’s Port Harcourt and Warri refineries are producing mostly naphtha, not viable Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
Speaking to The PUNCH, DAPPMAN Executive Secretary Olufemi Adewole said local supply remains inadequate, and members may turn to fuel imports if Dangote cannot meet bulk demand.
“Our members won’t lift from NNPC refineries for now. Only Dangote produces usable petrol. If it’s unavailable, we’re permitted under the Petroleum Industry Act to import,” Adewole explained.
He said DAPPMAN prefers domestic sourcing but faces challenges, especially with Dangote’s focus on select marketers and gantry sales, which limits access for depot owners who purchase in large volumes.
“If Dangote lets us load vessels directly, we can lift up to 25 metric tonnes,” Adewole said, adding that discussions are ongoing, but it’s unclear if Dangote is willing to sell in bulk.
He emphasized DAPPMAN’s goal is affordable, quality fuel: “We support Dangote, but we’ll import if it’s more cost-effective. We’re in business.”
Refinery Performance Declines
Despite resuming at 70% capacity in late 2024, the Port Harcourt refinery’s output reportedly fell below 40% by April 2025. Warri refinery shut down in January due to technical faults, and both rely on naphtha blending for PMS.
Managing directors of the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries were recently dismissed over performance issues. NNPC’s spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye, did not respond to requests for comment.
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