Dangote Refinery suspends self-collection of petroleum products

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited has announced the suspension of gantry self-collection of petroleum products at its facility, effective Thursday, September 18, 2025.

The development was communicated in an internal memo issued by the company’s Group Commercial Operations Department.

According to the directive, the move is designed to curb sales to unregistered marketers while promoting the refinery’s free delivery system to licensed retail outlets.

According to the company, the move is part of an operational review designed to improve efficiency. Marketers were advised to switch to the Free Delivery Scheme, which ensures direct shipments to filling stations.

The refinery also warned that “any payment made after this date will not be honoured.”

The communication stated: “We wish to inform you that, effective 18th September 2025, Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals FZE has placed all self-collection gantry sales on hold until further notice. In light of this development, we kindly request that all payments related to active PFIs for self-collection are also placed on hold until further notice. Please note that any payment made after this date will not be honoured.”

The refinery, however, clarified that the Free Delivery Scheme remains active for both existing and new customers. “We encourage all active and newly onboarded customers to register for the DPRP Free Delivery Scheme, which remains fully operational and offers a seamless delivery experience to your station,” the statement added.

Apologising for any disruptions, the company noted: “We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding as we implement this operational adjustment.”

The development comes amid ongoing friction between the refinery, the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), and the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN).

NUPENG has accused Dangote of preventing unionisation of its truck drivers despite a government-mediated agreement, while DAPPMAN has criticised the “free delivery scheme,” alleging that marketers are forced to rely on Dangote’s fleet at commercial rates.

Dangote has defended the system, saying it helps stabilise supply and reduce costs, while accusing marketers of seeking subsidies and promoting product diversion. The standoff has raised concerns over labour rights, pricing, and competition in the downstream petroleum sector.

Industry watchers say the suspension of gantry sales could hit independent marketers and station owners who are yet to register for the delivery scheme and previously depended on direct collection at the refinery.

(PUNCH)