No Plans to Shut Petrol Unit, Says Dangote Refinery
Lagos, Nigeria – September 8, 2025
The management of Dangote Petroleum Refinery has debunked recent speculation suggesting that it plans to shut down its petrol production unit. In a statement released on Monday, the company reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining local fuel production and stabilizing the Nigerian downstream oil sector.
“There are no plans to shut down our petrol unit,” a spokesperson for the refinery stated. “Our operations are ongoing, and we remain focused on ramping up production to meet domestic and regional demand.”
The clarification comes amid reports circulating in some media outlets and on social media platforms alleging operational setbacks at the $19 billion facility located in Lekki Free Zone, Lagos State. The refinery, which began operations earlier this year, is Africa’s largest and has a nameplate capacity of 650,000 barrels per day.
The company emphasized that the refinery is currently producing diesel, aviation fuel, and other refined products, while commissioning activities for the petrol (PMS) unit are progressing as planned.
Industry analysts suggest the rumors may have stemmed from routine technical adjustments or delays in distribution logistics, which are common in large-scale refinery startups.
“Such reports are not only misleading but could also undermine investor confidence in the progress being made in Nigeria’s downstream sector,” said energy analyst Ibrahim Musa of EnergyScope Nigeria.
The Dangote Refinery is expected to play a pivotal role in reducing Nigeria’s reliance on imported refined fuel, a longstanding challenge for Africa’s largest oil producer. With its strategic output capabilities, the refinery is also targeting exports to West African markets.
The management reassured stakeholders that they are working closely with regulators and distribution partners to ensure petrol supplies begin flowing to the Nigerian market in the coming weeks.
“We urge the public to disregard false reports and trust in the progress we are making,” the spokesperson added.
