DAPPMAN Dangote Refinery fuel pricing debate heats up as marketers demand better access and affordable rates to end fuel queues across Nigeria

DAPPMAN Dangote Refinery fuel pricing concerns are gaining attention as the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria has appealed for better access and fairer pricing from the refinery.

Also read: Dangote refinery fuel truck charges spark outrage

Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, DAPPMAN spokesperson Ikem Ohia stressed that marketers are not in conflict with the refinery but want a transparent, sustainable arrangement to ensure consistent fuel availability across the country.

“Our key interest is to have petroleum products offered at reasonable prices consistently, in a way that there’s no stock-out and Nigerians no longer queue for fuel,” Ohia said.

Although acknowledging the Dangote Refinery as the dominant local producer, Ohia argued that both access and pricing remain unresolved challenges.

He questioned the current distribution strategy, saying it limits marketers’ ability to purchase and distribute fuel at scale.

“For over two decades, our members have built strong infrastructure across Lagos, Warri, Port Harcourt and Calabar. These depots can serve the nation effectively if Dangote allows bulk supply access,” he said.

Ohia rejected any suggestion that marketers are lobbying for subsidies. “We are businessmen; so is he. We’re in negotiations to bridge the pricing gap—not seeking handouts,” he clarified.

Referencing global practice, he noted that successful refineries rely heavily on off-takers for bulk evacuation rather than retail gantry sales alone, which cannot meet national demand.

DAPPMAN claims it approached Dangote prior to production to secure a bulk supply arrangement, but a firm understanding was never finalised.

“He seems to prefer working with a few selected partners. We believe a more open system is in the country’s best interest,” Ohia added.

The debate has intensified following Dangote’s rollout of 4,000 CNG-powered trucks to aid distribution.

While efficient, marketers argue this centralised logistics model gives the refinery too much control over the downstream sector.

Fuel outlet owners also raised doubts about the trucks’ capacity to serve the entire nation.

“The numbers don’t add up. Bulk depot supply is essential if we must meet demand,” Ohia said, adding that some members operate over 300 filling stations but receive inadequate supply.

Responding to DAPPMAN’s recent claims, Dangote Petroleum Refinery dismissed as “false and unfounded” the suggestion that over ₦1.5 trillion in subsidies was being absorbed by the refinery.

It maintained that fuel prices reflect actual production costs plus regulated margins.

The company also reaffirmed that it would not shoulder logistics costs, noting that marketers are responsible for transporting fuel from its gantry, in line with the Federal Government’s subsidy removal policy since May 2023.

Meanwhile, billionaire investor Femi Otedola advised marketers to adapt rather than resist change, urging them to restructure or consider acquiring facilities like the Port Harcourt Refinery.

Also read: Dangote refinery fuel truck charges spark outrage

As DAPPMAN Dangote Refinery fuel pricing remains under scrutiny, many Nigerians are hopeful that a more cooperative approach will emerge to ensure steady supply and price stability across the country.