Dangote Petroleum Refinery has started receiving 4,000 compressed natural gas (CNG) trucks for its new fuel distribution program launching on August 15.
This move aims to cut logistics costs and boost supply efficiency across Nigeria.
Imported via Apapa Port, the trucks are part of a N720 billion investment, highlighting Dangote’s commitment to innovative fuel distribution as Africa’s largest refinery expands operations.
“The first consignment of trucks recently departed Apapa Port and was formally received at the refinery site in Ibeju-Lekki by Vice-President of Oil and Gas at Dangote Industries Ltd, Devakumar Edwin, the press statement said.
The arrival, it added, was met with enthusiasm from refinery personnel and customers alike, many of whom were present to witness the tangible progress towards improved fuel accessibility.
Members of the public who observed the convoy’s journey from Apapa to Ibeju-Lekki expressed commendation for Dangote’s proactive approach in addressing the chronic logistics challenges that have long impeded the downstream sector.
Speaking on the rollout, Group Chief of Branding and Communication, Dangote Industries Limited, Mr Anthony Chiejina, provided further insights into the implementation strategy.
He said: “The commencement of the initiative marks a groundbreaking development in Nigeria’s fuel distribution network. Given the complexities inherent in global supply chains, the delivery of these specialised CNG-powered tankers is indeed commedable. This approach ensures that we maintain operational efficiency while scaling up the fleet.
“Our unwavering commitment to this programme is reflected in our ongoing collaboration with key regulatory bodies and stakeholders to facilitate seamless deployment. We believe this initiative will significantly lower distribution costs and improve fuel availability for our customers nationwide.”
He added that over the next six weeks, the refinery expects at least sixty shiploads of these trucks to arrive in the country.
This innovative distribution model is expected to catalyse efficiency gains across Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector, fostering greater transparency, reducing transportation bottlenecks, and ultimately enhancing energy security for the nation.
In June, Dangote Petroleum Refinery revealed a landmark investment exceeding N720 billion to deploy 4,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered trucks across Nigeria for the nationwide distribution of petroleum products. This bold initiative is projected to save Nigerians over N1.7 trillion annually in fuel distribution costs.
The privately owned refinery will absorb more than N1.07 trillion every year in fuel logistics expenses. The scheme is expected to significantly benefit over 42 million Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by lowering energy costs and improving profitability.
This strategic programme is part of Dangote’s broader commitment to eliminating logistics bottlenecks, enhancing energy efficiency, promoting environmental sustainability, and supporting Nigeria’s economic development. Lower fuel distribution costs will reduce production expenses, alleviate inflationary pressures, and stimulate overall economic growth.
The initiative is also expected to revitalise dormant filling stations, creating over 15,000 direct jobs across the logistics value chain, including positions for drivers, station managers, and attendants at the new CNG stations.
Moreover, the refinery said that the programme would help curb cross-border smuggling of petroleum products while supporting a more efficient and environmentally friendly distribution system.
Commercial Coordinator of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI), Tosin Coker, commended the move, thus:
“Dangote Group’s acquisition of 4,000 CNG trucks is not only impressive in scale but also highly strategic,” he said. “It signals to the market that CNG is no longer a distant prospect but a current, practical solution to high energy costs, emissions, and supply chain challenges. PCNGI regards this as a milestone achievement in our efforts to accelerate gas-powered transport adoption.”
