By Promise Dera

Copyright nigerianeye

Independent fuel marketers in Nigeria have started receiving free fuel deliveries from Dangote Refinery, utilizing a fleet of compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered trucks to reduce distribution costs and stabilize pump prices, according to the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN).

IPMAN President Abubakar Shettima confirmed on Friday that marketers in Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, and other South-Western states have begun receiving petroleum products without transport charges.

“Dangote’s free delivery has started. Trucks are already discharging products across the Western Zone, and our members are pleased,” Shettima said.

The refinery deployed over 1,000 CNG-powered trucks this week, part of a 4,000-vehicle fleet ordered from China.

Originally set for August 15, the rollout faced delays due to shipping issues, with the remaining trucks expected by October.

Only registered marketers can access the logistics-free supply, though Shettima noted that registration remains open via an online portal.

The initiative is already driving down fuel prices, with pump prices expected to drop from N865 to around N841 per litre as supplies expand.

“Wherever the refinery delivers, our members adjust prices downward,” Shettima said. Some stations, including MRS outlets, have reportedly lowered prices in response.

By eliminating middlemen, Dangote’s direct distribution aims to cut costs for marketers and ease the burden of high fuel prices on motorists following the 2023 subsidy removal.

The move is part of the refinery’s broader strategy to enhance efficiency and affordability in Nigeria’s fuel market.

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