Dangote Refinery Launches Free Petrol Distribution Nationwide, Defies Union Resistance
Story written by Peterson September 16,2025
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has officially rolled out its free fuel distribution initiative across Nigeria, declaring there will be “no going back” despite stiff opposition from industry unions and marketers.
The refinery announced on September 11 that the free supply of petrol would begin on September 15, describing the move as part of its commitment to easing the hardship faced by Nigerians. However, the decision immediately sparked controversy.
The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) dismissed the initiative on September 12 as a deceptive “Greek gift,” while the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) accused the refinery of misleading the public, insisting that marketers were still required to lift 25 percent of allocations directly from its gantry.
In response, Dangote accused critics of orchestrating a sabotage campaign, particularly against its plan to use Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered trucks for nationwide fuel distribution—a step it described as critical to Nigeria’s push for energy independence.
The refinery also pushed back on claims about fuel quality, recalling the 2022 methanol-adulterated petrol scandal linked to a DAPPMAN member, which caused widespread engine damage to thousands of vehicles. Dangote alleged that loopholes in Nigeria’s product certification process allow irregularities, calling for a forensic audit of fuel quality certificates.
On fuel pricing, the refinery dismissed comparisons with neighbouring Togo, noting that the average pump price in Lomé is around 680 CFA francs (₦1,826) per litre—far higher than Nigerian prices.
Dangote further accused vested interests of prioritizing imports over local refining, framing union pushback as an attempt to stall reforms in the oil and gas sector.
Although NUPENG briefly suspended its strike threat on September 9, it reignited industrial action calls just days later. Still, Dangote maintains that its free petrol initiative will continue, positioning the refinery as a game-changer for Nigeria and the wider West African region.
