Dangote Refinery denies importing finished fuel

Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals (DPRP) has dismissed reports alleging that it imports finished petroleum products, describing the claims as false and rooted in a misunderstanding of how modern refineries operate.

The company said its operations are consistent with global best practices, explaining that while it processes intermediate or semi-refined feedstocks, it does not import market-ready fuel for sale in Nigeria.

Speaking during a media briefing at the refinery complex, the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, David Bird, said the facility functions as a large-scale merchant refinery that refines crude oil and converts intermediate materials into premium fuels and petrochemicals that meet international standards.

Bird explained that the processing of semi-finished inputs is a common practice in the global refining industry and should not be mistaken for importing finished products.

He noted that the refinery operates on a European and Asian merchant refinery model that combines advanced refining, blending and trading systems to meet strict quality and environmental requirements.

According to him, the refinery produces Euro-standard fuels, including lead-free and MMT-free petrol with 50 parts per million sulphur content, and ultra-low sulphur diesel aimed at reducing emissions, protecting engines and improving public health.

“We supply only fully refined, market-ready products. Semi-finished fuels are not suitable for vehicles and are never released into the Nigerian market,” Bird said.

He added that the refinery was built to address years of substandard fuel imports into Nigeria and now exports refined products to international markets, underscoring their quality and competitiveness.

Bird also reaffirmed the company’s commitment to transparency and regulatory compliance, urging the media to clearly distinguish between intermediate feedstocks and finished fuels to avoid misleading the public.

“It is unfortunate that some narratives seek to misrepresent a refinery that has helped transform Nigeria and the West African region into a hub for high-quality petroleum products,” he said.

Group Chief Brand and Communications Officer of Dangote Industries Limited, Anthony Chiejina, called on journalists to use accurate terminology in reporting, warning that misinformation could create unnecessary panic.

The company maintained that its operations have improved fuel availability, reduced supply shortages and eased pressure on foreign exchange by cutting dependence on imports.