Dangote Refinery Halts Sales to Unregistered Marketers

Dangote Refinery strengthens free delivery scheme amid ongoing disputes #DangoteRefinery #FuelSales

Refinery Strengthens Free Delivery Scheme Amid Ongoing Disputes

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has suspended self-collection gantry sales of petroleum products at its facility, effective September 18, 2025. The refinery cited the need to strengthen its free delivery scheme for retail outlets and curb sales to unregistered marketers. This decision is expected to have significant implications for independent petroleum marketers and retail operators who depend on direct self-collection at the gantry but are not yet signed up to the free delivery scheme. The move is seen as a strategic step to streamline the distribution process and ensure that products are delivered directly to registered marketers, thereby reducing the risk of diversion and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

The suspension comes amid ongoing disputes between the refinery, the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, and the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria. NUPENG has accused Dangote of resisting unionization of its truck drivers, while DAPPMAN has criticized the refinery’s free delivery scheme, claiming marketers are being forced to rely on Dangote’s fleet at commercial rates. Despite these challenges, Dangote Refinery remains committed to its free delivery scheme, which aims to stabilize supply, cut costs, and curb diversion. The refinery has urged all active and new customers to register for the program, assuring seamless delivery services.

The refinery's decision to halt sales to unregistered marketers has sparked mixed reactions from industry stakeholders. While some have praised the move as a necessary step to ensure compliance and stability in the sector, others have expressed concerns about the potential impact on small-scale marketers who may not have the resources to register for the free delivery scheme. Nevertheless, Dangote Refinery has assured that it remains committed to supporting the growth and development of the petroleum industry in Nigeria.