Dangote: We've ended long-standing fuel queues, our CNG trucks creating over 24,000 jobs - Newstrends
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Dangote: We’ve ended long-standing fuel queues, our CNG trucks creating over 24,000 jobs

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Dangote: We’ve ended long-standing fuel queues, our CNG trucks creating over 24,000 jobs

President and CEO of Dangote Petroleum Refinery, Aliko Dangote, has announced that Nigeria’s long-standing battle with fuel queues has officially come to an end following a year of petrol production at the 650,000-barrels-per-day facility.

Speaking at an event commemorating the refinery’s first anniversary of petrol production on September 15, 2025, Dangote stated that the country’s struggle with fuel scarcity—dating back nearly five decades to 1975—has finally been overcome.

“We have been battling fuel queues since 1975, but today, Nigerians are witnessing a new era,” Dangote said.

A bold gamble that paid off

Recalling the challenges of building Africa’s largest refinery, Dangote revealed the immense personal and financial risks involved in the project.

“Industry experts, investors, and even government officials warned me. They said only sovereign nations attempt projects of this magnitude. If the refinery had failed, lenders would have taken everything. But we believed in Nigeria and Africa,” he said.

Despite early skepticism and economic headwinds, the refinery has emerged as a game-changer. Dangote disclosed that between June and early September 2025, the facility exported over 1.1 billion litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), solidifying its capacity to meet domestic demand while contributing significantly to Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings.

Impact on fuel prices and distribution

Since the refinery began producing petrol, the average pump price has dropped significantly—from nearly ₦1,100 per litre before production began to around ₦841 per litre in several regions, including Lagos, Abuja, Delta, Rivers, Edo, and Kwara States.

The refinery’s rollout of 4,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered trucks is expected to further stabilise prices nationwide by improving logistics and reducing distribution costs.

Massive job creation and employee welfare

Dangote stressed that the refinery’s operations are geared towards creating—not displacing—jobs. The deployment of CNG trucks alone is projected to generate over 24,000 direct and indirect jobs across the country.

“We haven’t displaced any workers. In fact, our drivers earn a living wage, receive life and health insurance that covers their spouses and up to four children, and enjoy pensions for life. These trucks won’t be operated by robots,” he said.

In addition to drivers, the CNG initiative is expected to create roles for mechanics, fleet managers, and other support staff.

A vision for industrialisation, economic sovereignty

Dangote reiterated his longstanding commitment to Nigeria’s industrial transformation, urging stronger protection of local industries against the dumping of cheap imports. He pointed to the collapse of Nigeria’s textile sector as a cautionary example of unchecked foreign competition.

“Other nations were not industrialised by outsiders. We must build and industrialise our own economies. Without that, who will invest in us?” he said.

He called on the National Assembly to legislate support for the Federal Government’s “Nigeria First” policy, warning that over-reliance on imports equates to exporting jobs and importing poverty.

No plans for retail takeover

Addressing concerns about competition in the downstream sector, Dangote clarified that the refinery has no intention of entering the retail market or acquiring filling stations.

“We believe in collaboration, not competition. We’ve had opportunities to buy retail outlets, but we declined. Our focus is on production and distribution, and we welcome partnerships with existing marketers,” he said.

Expansion and regional leadership

Dangote also revealed plans to expand the refinery’s capacity to 700,000 barrels per day in its second year of operation, further positioning Nigeria as Africa’s refining hub.

In addition to fuel production, the company aims to make Nigeria the largest global producer of fertiliser and the top exporter of polypropylene in Africa—moves he says will diversify the economy and create even more jobs.

“We are fully committed to supporting the government in adding value, creating jobs, and building a stronger economy. Nigeria is now the refining capital of Africa,” he stated.

CNG trucks, security and public confidence

Speaking on the several CNG-powered trucks currently being loaded at the refinery, Dangote said all the 4,000 units would be deployed nationwide.

He dismissed fears of attacks or disruptions, stating, “This is a country governed by law. Security agencies are fully empowered to protect lives and infrastructure.”

He also expressed gratitude to the Federal Government, refinery staff, partners, and Nigerians for their continued support.

He praised the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) for encouraging its members to participate in the free petrol distribution initiative using the CNG fleet.

From conquering decades of fuel scarcity to leading Africa’s march toward industrialisation, Dangote’s refinery is redefining Nigeria’s energy landscape.

As it enters its second year of petrol production, the project stands as a bold testament to private-sector leadership, national pride, and the power of believing in Africa.

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Carloha Rides High, Plans New EV for Nigeria After Winning Global Honours

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Carloha Rides High, Plans New EV for Nigeria After Winning Global Honours 

 

Carloha Nigeria, the authorised dealer of Chery vehicles in Nigeria, is strengthening its position in the country’s automotive industry after clinching two prestigious global awards as it unveils plans to introduce another electric vehicle (EV) into the market.

iCAUR (iCAR) is a global youth-oriented electric vehicle brand under the Chery Group, which was developed in partnership with SmartMi Tech. The brand is focused on stylish designs and smart mobility and it is currently expanding across international markets.

Carloha Nigeria received the New Star Award and Brand Leap Contribution Award at the 2026 Chery Global Summit and Beijing International Automotive Exhibition in China. This is in recognition of its rapid market growth, brand development efforts and customer engagement initiatives.

The international recognition comes as Carloha intensifies its push into Nigeria’s growing EV space, buoyed by the positive reception of the iCAUR brand among motorists, technology enthusiasts and environmentally conscious consumers.

Managing Director, Sola Adigun, said the awards validate the company’s commitment to delivering world-class automotive solutions, while the growing acceptance of iCAUR reflects increasing consumer interest in innovative and sustainable mobility options.

“The Nigerian automotive market is evolving, and consumers are becoming increasingly receptive to innovation, sustainability and smart mobility solutions.

“The success of iCAUR has encouraged us to continue investing in the future of electric mobility in Nigeria,” he said.

Adigun disclosed that plans for the launch of a new EV are at an advanced stage, describing the move as part of a broader strategy to expand consumer choice and support Nigeria’s transition to cleaner transportation.

He added, “Winning these awards on the global stage is a strong endorsement of the work our team has done in building the Chery brand in Nigeria.

“It also demonstrates that Nigerian automotive businesses can compete successfully with the best across the world.”

According to him, Nigerian customers are increasingly demanding vehicles that combine intelligent safety technologies, premium comfort, fuel efficiency and modern design, noting that these qualities were prominently showcased by Chery at the Beijing exhibition.

“Beyond selling vehicles, our goal is to provide mobility solutions that meet the evolving needs of Nigerian families and businesses while aligning with global trends in sustainability, innovation and customer experience,” Adigun said.

At Auto China 2026, Chery also showcased its latest safety and intelligent mobility technologies, including the all-new TIGGO V and its AiMOGA robotics innovations, under its new global brand philosophy, “For Family.”
General Manager, Felix Mahan, said the awards underscore Carloha Nigeria’s commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, adding that the company’s CarlohaCare 6-6-7 package continues to offer customers industry-leading aftersales support through a six-year warranty, six years of free service and a seven-day repair promise.
“This recognition reflects growing international confidence in both the Nigerian market and our ability to deliver world-class customer experience. We remain committed to making vehicle ownership easier, more affordable and more rewarding for our customers,” Mahan said.
With fresh global recognition and an expanded EV strategy, Carloha is positioning itself as one of the key players driving the future of sustainable mobility in Nigeria.

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BREAKING: Dangote Refinery Announces New Petrol, Diesel Prices

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BREAKING: Dangote Refinery Announces New Petrol, Diesel Prices

BREAKING: Dangote Refinery Announces New Petrol, Diesel Prices

LAGOS, NIGERIA – The Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has announced fresh reductions in the prices of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, and Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), also known as diesel, in a move that is expected to reshape pricing dynamics across Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector . Information made available to the Nigerian Tribune on Saturday by a source familiar with the development showed that the refinery has lowered the gantry price of petrol by N25 per litre, bringing it down from N1,275 to N1,250 per litre . A senior Dangote Group official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed the development and attributed the price adjustment to the recent decline in global crude oil prices. “We have reduced the petrol price to N1,250 at our gantry. This has to do with the current reduction in global oil prices, though everything is still volatile and requires caution,” the official said .

The reduction comes as depot prices were already responding to shifting supply dynamics. Market checks by Petroleumprice.ng showed that Aiteo and NIPCO were selling petrol at N1,272 per litre, while Integrated Energy, Ascon, and African Terminal were trading around N1,274 per litre, all below Dangote Refinery’s previous gantry price of N1,275 per litre . The latest price reduction comes about three weeks after reports emerged that Dangote Refinery had increased the ex-gantry price of petrol. At the time, a credible inside source disclosed that petrol continued to sell at N1,275 per litre at the refinery, hours after reports claimed that the company had raised its petrol price by N75 amid fluctuations in global crude oil prices .

The refinery has also reduced the price of Automotive Gas Oil (diesel) by N100 per litre, setting the ex-depot price at N1,700 per litre, down from the previous N1,800 per litre, according to a refinery communique sighted by petroleumprice.ng effective May 27, 2026 . However, this followed a brief reduction attempt on May 26 when the refinery had adjusted diesel prices by N200 to N1,600 per litre but retracted the announcement later the same day . Industry operators said the reversal was aimed at preventing losses among marketers and ensuring a fair adjustment across the supply chain.

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Confirming the diesel price development, the National Public Relations Officer of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) , Mr. Joseph Obele, said the reduction followed the arrival of imported petroleum cargoes into the country. “Dangote Refinery recently instituted legal action after the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) approved import licences for some marketers to bring petroleum products into the country,” Obele said . “Over the weekend, some of the vessels carrying imported products reportedly arrived, and shortly after, the refinery reduced the gantry price of diesel from N1,800 to N1,600 per litre” . He described the development as a direct result of market rivalry: “All hail competition and say no to monopoly in the petroleum industry. The more the competition, the better prices consumers will enjoy” .

The development comes amid an ongoing dispute over the issuance and renewal of import licences by the NMDPRA to marketers and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). Industry observers say the timing of the diesel price cut is significant, as the new selling price from Dangote Refinery competes directly with imported products . Industry analysts said the diesel price cut could ease transportation and logistics costs if sustained, especially for manufacturers and businesses heavily dependent on diesel-powered operations .

Falling crude oil prices have strengthened market expectations of lower refined product prices. Brent crude, the international oil benchmark, has declined amid reports that the United States and Iran were close to reaching a ceasefire agreement . The easing of tensions between the two countries immediately impacted the oil market, with traders reacting positively to expectations of improved crude supply and reduced geopolitical risks in the Middle East . Despite the reductions at the refinery gate, checks indicate that retail prices have remained largely unchanged in many parts of the country, with several filling stations still dispensing petrol at prices above N1,350 per litre . Industry observers say the gap between ex-depot and retail prices may persist for some time as marketers work through existing stock purchased at higher rates before implementing any fresh pricing changes . The latest cuts come as competition continues to grow within Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector following the removal of fuel subsidies and the full deregulation of the market.

BREAKING: Dangote Refinery Announces New Petrol, Diesel Prices

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FG Deepens CNG Expansion with 1,100-Vehicle Capacity Gas Station in Abuja

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FG Deepens CNG Expansion with 1,100-Vehicle Capacity Gas Station in Abuja

FG Deepens CNG Expansion with 1,100-Vehicle Capacity Gas Station in Abuja

The Federal Government has intensified efforts to deepen the adoption of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in Nigeria with the commissioning of a high-capacity refuelling station in Abuja capable of serving more than 1,100 vehicles daily.

The newly inaugurated facility, developed by Rolling Energy Limited in partnership with the Midstream and Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund (MDGIF), is located in Jahi, Abuja, and is expected to significantly boost access to cleaner and more affordable transportation energy.

The project forms part of the Federal Government’s broader strategy to expand Nigeria’s gas infrastructure, reduce reliance on petrol and diesel, and accelerate the transition to cleaner fuel alternatives under the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (Pi-CNG).

The High Capacity CNG Daughter Booster Station has a sales capacity of 1,000 Standard Cubic Metres (SCM) per hour, supported by two CNG tube skids with a combined storage capacity of 17,000 SCM.

The station also features a Mass Conversion Centre staffed by trained technicians and equipped with conversion kits capable of converting up to 20 vehicles and 25 tricycles daily, providing practical support for motorists and commercial operators seeking to switch to gas-powered transportation.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony on Friday, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, described the project as a major milestone in Nigeria’s drive to deepen gas utilisation and strengthen access to affordable energy solutions.

Ekpo said the facility would play a strategic role in supporting the nationwide rollout of CNG adoption, particularly as the government continues efforts to cushion the impact of rising fuel costs following the removal of petrol subsidy.

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He said, “Facilities such as this are essential for building the backbone infrastructure required to support widespread CNG penetration in Nigeria.”

The minister commended Rolling Energy Limited and MDGIF for delivering the project, describing it as one of four strategic gas infrastructure projects currently being commissioned across the country.

According to him, similar projects by Ibile Oil and Gas, Portland Energy and Femadec are also being commissioned in Lagos and Owerri, signalling increased private sector confidence in the Federal Government’s gas commercialisation agenda.

Ekpo said the projects align with the Federal Government’s Decade of Gas Initiative, launched to leverage Nigeria’s estimated 215 trillion cubic feet of proven gas reserves to drive industrialisation, transportation reform, economic diversification and long-term energy security.

The minister noted that expanding gas infrastructure remains central to President Bola Tinubu’s energy transition agenda, which aims to provide Nigerians with cleaner, cheaper and more sustainable alternatives to conventional fuels.

Stakeholders in the energy sector have welcomed the development, noting that improved CNG station availability is crucial to encouraging wider adoption among private motorists, commercial transport operators and industrial users.

Analysts also say the establishment of more conversion centres and refuelling stations will help address one of the biggest barriers to mass CNG adoption — inadequate infrastructure.

The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to supporting private-sector-led investments to ensure that CNG refuelling stations become accessible across major cities and transport corridors nationwide.

FG Deepens CNG Expansion with 1,100-Vehicle Capacity Gas Station in Abuja

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