Dangote Refinery pushes on with fuel distribution as CNG trucks arrive

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals has started receiving the 4,000 compressed natural gas (CNG) powered trucks as part of its plan to commence fuel distribution nationwide. The refinery has unveiled a fuel distribution logistics programme starting on August 15 despite opposition from some marketers and fuel suppliers who argued that the m The Nigerian […]

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals has started receiving the 4,000 compressed natural gas (CNG) powered trucks as part of its plan to commence fuel distribution nationwide.

The refinery has unveiled a fuel distribution logistics programme starting on August 15 despite opposition from some marketers and fuel suppliers who argued that the m

The Nigerian Oil and Gas Suppliers Association (NOGASA) had warned of fuel scarcity if Dangote is allowed to control the downstream of the petroleum sector.

But the refinery is pushing on with the initiative, shoving aside the opposition as according to Dangote, the initiative aims to transform the fuel distribution landscape within Nigeria by reducing logistics costs and enhancing supply efficiency for customers.

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The refinery stated that the fleet of fuel tankers, being imported through Apapa Port, represents a significant capital investment estimated at N720 billion.

This expenditure underscores the company’s commitment to pioneering innovative solutions as the world’s largest single-train refinery continues to expand its operational capabilities.

The first consignment of trucks recently departed Apapa Port and was formally received at the refinery site in Ibeju-Lekki by Vice-President of Oil and Gas at Dangote Industries Ltd, Devakumar Edwin.

The arrival was met with enthusiasm from refinery personnel and customers alike, many of whom were present to witness the tangible progress towards improved fuel accessibility.

Speaking on the rollout, Group Chief of Branding and Communication, Dangote Industries Limited, Mr Anthony Chiejina, said, “The commencement of the initiative marks a groundbreaking development in Nigeria’s fuel distribution network. Given the complexities inherent in global supply chains, the delivery of these specialised CNG-powered tankers is indeed commendable. This approach ensures that we maintain operational efficiency while scaling up the fleet.

“Our unwavering commitment to this programme is reflected in our ongoing collaboration with key regulatory bodies and stakeholders to facilitate seamless deployment. We believe this initiative will significantly lower distribution costs and improve fuel availability for our customers nationwide.”

He added that over the next six weeks, the refinery expects at least sixty shiploads of these trucks to arrive in the country.

The initiative is also expected to revitalise dormant filling stations, creating over 15,000 direct jobs across the logistics value chain, including positions for drivers, station managers, and attendants at the new CNG stations.

Moreover, the refinery said that the programme would help curb cross-border smuggling of petroleum products while supporting a more efficient and environmentally friendly distribution system.

Commercial Coordinator of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI), Tosin Coker, commended the move:

“Dangote Group’s acquisition of 4,000 CNG trucks is not only impressive in scale but also highly strategic,” he said. “It signals to the market that CNG is no longer a distant prospect but a current, practical solution to high energy costs, emissions, and supply chain challenges. PCNGI regards this as a milestone achievement in our efforts to accelerate gas-powered transport adoption.”