Dangote’s oil & gas foray will boost local refining – NARTO

The Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) has stated that the expansion of the Dangote Group in the oil and gas sector boosts local refining capacity, improves product availability, and creates employment opportunities for thousands of Nigerians. In his remarks at the 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Abuja, the National President of NARTO, […]

The Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) has stated that the expansion of the Dangote Group in the oil and gas sector boosts local refining capacity, improves product availability, and creates employment opportunities for thousands of Nigerians.

In his remarks at the 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Abuja, the National President of NARTO, Yusuf Lawal Othman while commending the Dangote Group for his patriotic investment in the Nigerian economy, said these investments that culminated in the construction of the world’s largest single train refinery and the importation of about 4,000 trucks to support the local distribution of petroleum products nationwide is a good initiative the country needs to revive the economy.

He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support to the transport sector through the CNG initiative.

He said the partnership with the Initiative has resulted in the deployment of new fleets to strengthen its transport capacity. 

These, he said, include 20 units of 14-seater CNG/Petrol buses, 5 units of 56-seater hybrid CNG/Diesel buses, and 3 units of 46-seater CNG/Diesel engine buses.

Othman added that the vehicles are currently deployed for interstate and intra-city shuttle services across the country, contributing meaningfully to safer, cleaner, and more affordable mass transportation, as well as reducing transportation costs by over 30 per cent.

Despite the gains, he said the industry is still grappling with challenges such as declining revenues arising from the refusal of oil marketers to review freight rates; old, dilapidated, and inadequate fleets; limited access to low-interest financing; poor road infrastructure; insecurity; and the persistent harassment and extortion of drivers.

He said while the association appreciates government efforts in road rehabilitation and construction, it appeals for accelerated completion of ongoing projects, especially ahead of the rainy season.

The National President expressed concern over the rising incidence of road accidents, particularly tanker explosions, which have resulted in the loss of lives and property. 

While commending the role of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), NARTO hopes it will continue to ensure the viability of the sector through fair pricing mechanisms that make petroleum transportation sustainable and profitable.

The NARTO boss said the association has also made remarkable progress in strengthening collaborations with key security and law-enforcement agencies to enhance safety and security on the roads.