Dangote Refinery Begins Nationwide Fuel Distribution Amid Tanker Blockade

Lagos, Nigeria – June 10, 2025
As fears of fuel scarcity grow across Lagos and other parts of Nigeria, the Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced that it will begin the nationwide distribution of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) starting August 15, 2025.

This announcement comes amid escalating tensions between tanker drivers, fuel marketers, and the Lagos State Government over the controversial implementation of a new E-Call Up system, which mandates a fee of ₦12,500 per truck accessing the Lekki-Epe corridor.

Tanker drivers under the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) and fuel marketers represented by IPMAN have threatened to halt fuel loading operations, insisting the fee be slashed to ₦2,500 per truck. Talks with the state government are ongoing, but no resolution has been reached.

Meanwhile, Dangote’s intervention seeks to ease looming supply disruptions. The refinery announced plans to deploy 4,000 CNG-powered tankers and establish dedicated daughter booster stations to support distribution. The company also pledged free delivery for bulk buyers and support for small businesses via a credit scheme.

“This strategic programme aims to eliminate logistics bottlenecks, reduce operational costs, and support national economic reforms,” Dangote Refinery stated.

However, marketers argue that the government rushed the E-Call Up policy without consulting key stakeholders or upgrading the designated truck parks. IPMAN Vice President Hammed Fashola criticized the poor condition of the parks and lack of engagement with depot and refinery operators.

“This isn’t just about cost. The infrastructure isn’t ready, and implementation shouldn’t be by force,” Fashola said.

He added that some operators, like the Dangote Refinery and Pinnacle Oil, already have internal parking facilities and should not be compelled to use the state’s parks.

The Lagos State Government, however, remains firm on implementing the E-Call Up policy from Monday, June 16, citing its goal to reduce congestion, enhance traffic flow, and protect infrastructure along the busy Lekki-Epe corridor — home to the refinery and other industrial assets.

The standoff between the government and stakeholders may further disrupt fuel supply if unresolved, although both NARTO and IPMAN maintain they support the policy in principle but demand more inclusive planning and fairer pricing.