Dangote Refinery clarifies it does not import finished fuel, producing high-quality petroleum products from crude and intermediate feedstocks

Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals (DPRP) has denied reports claiming it imports finished petroleum products, describing the allegations as incorrect and stemming from a misunderstanding of global refinery operations.

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At a media briefing at the refinery, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director David Bird explained that processing intermediate or semi-refined feedstocks is standard in the global refining industry and does not equate to importing finished fuels.

“DPRP produces high-quality fuels that meet international environmental and health standards. Our gasoline is lead-free and MMT-free with 50 parts per million sulphur, while our diesel meets ultra-low sulphur specifications,” Bird said.

The refinery, he noted, operates on a European and Asian merchant refinery model that integrates advanced refining, blending, and trading systems.

Semi-finished fuels are unsuitable for vehicles and are not released into the Nigerian market. During the briefing, samples of both intermediate feedstocks and fully refined products were displayed to journalists.

Bird added that the refinery was established to eliminate substandard fuel in Nigeria, supplying products competitive in international markets.

Intermediate materials such as naphtha, vacuum gas oil, reformate, and alkylate serve as feedstock for additional refining into finished fuels and petrochemicals.

“It is unfortunate that some individuals are spreading misleading narratives about a refinery that has transformed Nigeria and West Africa from a dumping ground for substandard fuels into a hub for high-quality products,” Bird said.

Anthony Chiejina, Group Chief Brand and Communications Officer of Dangote Industries Limited, urged journalists to use precise terminology, warning that inaccurate reporting could misinform the public and create unnecessary panic.

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Bird reassured Nigerians of sustained product availability, noting the refinery’s contribution to easing fuel scarcity, stabilising the naira, and reducing pressure on foreign exchange.