The Dangote Refinery has officially started distributing its first batch of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, from its 650,000 barrels-per-day facility. This was announced by Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Group, during a briefing on Tuesday, September 3.
At the briefing, Dangote presented the first sample of petrol produced at the refinery, noting that it appeared clearer and of better quality than what is currently available in the market.
He emphasized that the refinery’s production would help reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported fuel, control inflation, and contribute to stabilizing the Naira against the US dollar. Dangote stated, “As we have this refinery working, it will show the true consumption of Nigeria; we can track every loaded truck and ship.”
Dangote also expressed his gratitude to President Bola Tinubu’s administration for creating a supportive environment that enabled this project to succeed. He acknowledged the government’s introduction of the “Naira for crude” policy, which he believes will further stabilize the Nigerian currency.
The refinery is expected to meet the fuel demands of not only Nigeria but also neighboring sub-Saharan African countries. Dangote assured that the new petrol would offer better protection for vehicle engines compared to the less refined petrol currently in circulation. He added, “This is the sample of the petrol. You see it as a different color, but that is the real deal. You are now going to have a good and real product.”
