The Dangote Refinery, which began production in 2024, was launched with the promise of reducing Nigeria’s reliance on fuel imports and stabilizing local fuel prices. However, its market entry has been met with challenges, including delays in distribution, competition with NNPCL, and regulatory hurdles.
Lagos, Nigeria – A Nigerian consumer has sparked debate on social media after claiming that Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from the Dangote Refinery lasts longer than that sold by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
The man, who runs a product review page called Valor Reviews, conducted an experiment comparing the fuel efficiency of PMS from an NNPCL station in Lagos and that from an MRS Petrol station, which sources its fuel from the Dangote Refinery. Using two “I Better Pass My Neighbour” generators, he set a timer to monitor how long each would run on the different fuel sources.
According to his findings, the generator using NNPCL fuel stopped running 13 minutes earlier than the one using Dangote fuel, which ran for about 30 minutes in total. He also pointed out a price difference, stating that he purchased the Dangote-supplied PMS at ₦925 per litre, whereas the NNPCL fuel cost him ₦945 per litre, making the Dangote product not only more efficient but also cheaper.
The video has since gained traction on social media, with many Nigerians expressing concerns over fuel quality and pricing. While some users agreed with his findings, others questioned the reliability of the test, arguing that multiple factors could influence fuel efficiency.
A review of his Facebook page by REPORT AFRIQUE revealed that he evaluates various products and provides the public with insights on the best options to use or purchase. His reviews include the Redmi Note 14, the 2024 Range Rover, and updates on the crypto market, among others.
Fuel Supply Challenges and Dangote’s Growing Influence
The debate comes amid significant changes in Nigeria’s fuel market. Since the federal government removed fuel subsidies in May 2023, fuel prices have surged, placing a financial strain on millions of Nigerians. NNPCL, the country’s state-owned oil company, remains the dominant fuel supplier, but private refineries, particularly the 650,000 barrels-per-day Dangote Refinery, are expected to reshape the sector.
The Dangote Refinery, which began production in 2024, was launched with the promise of reducing Nigeria’s reliance on fuel imports and stabilizing local fuel prices. However, its market entry has been met with challenges, including delays in distribution, competition with NNPCL, and regulatory hurdles. Despite these challenges, Dangote has begun supplying refined fuel to the local market through partnerships with stations such as MRS, Rainoil, and others.
NNPCL, which has historically imported the bulk of Nigeria’s fuel, has also faced criticism over allegations of fuel adulteration, inefficiency, and fluctuating quality standards. In the past, Nigerians have complained about inconsistent fuel quality, with some products causing engine damage and poor fuel economy.
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