Oil marketers in Nigeria are concerned about the high prices of petrol sourced from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, which currently sells for N1,015 to N1,028 per litre, depending on purchase quantities. In response, several marketers are considering importing petrol to offer it at more affordable rates. According to the Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria, the landing cost of imported petrol as of October 31, 2024, is around N978.01 per litre—lower than the Dangote refinery price. Diesel and aviation fuel also have high landing costs, with diesel at N1,069.97 and aviation fuel at N1,119.67 per litre.
The Petroleum Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has shared plans to import petrol that could be sold at around N800 per litre, pending import approval from authorities. PETROAN's representative, Dr. Joseph Obele, indicated that international suppliers are prepared to provide the association with more affordable fuel options.
This situation highlights tension between the Dangote refinery and other marketers, who believe Dangote is leveraging influence to discourage the importation of alternative fuel sources. The refinery’s high prices may be tied to older, more expensive crude stocks.