Dangote Refinery Stops Self-Collection Sales, Pushes Free Delivery Scheme

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited have announced a halt to all self-collection gantry sales of petroleum products, effective Thursday, September 18, 2025.

According to an internal memo obtained by reporters, the decision was signed by the Group Commercial Operations Department and communicated to marketing partners on Friday.

The company explained that the suspension is part of an operational adjustment aimed at boosting efficiency, discouraging sales to unregistered marketers, and encouraging wider adoption of its Free Delivery Scheme, which ships products directly to retail outlets.

“Effective 18th September 2025, all self-collection gantry sales are on hold until further notice. Payments related to active PFIs for self-collection are also suspended, and any payment made after this date will not be honoured,” the memo read.

Dangote assured marketers that its Free Delivery Scheme remains fully operational for both existing and new customers, describing it as a seamless delivery service designed to stabilise supply and reduce costs.

The management apologised for any inconvenience caused by the new policy.

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Industry Tensions

The announcement comes amid a simmering dispute between the refinery, the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), and the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN).

• NUPENG accuses the refinery of resisting unionisation of its truck drivers despite a government-brokered agreement.
• DAPPMAN criticises the free delivery scheme, alleging that marketers are being forced to rely on Dangote’s fleet at commercial rates.

Dangote, however, insists that the delivery model is meant to prevent diversion, reduce costs, and keep prices stable. In a statement on its official X (Twitter) account, the refinery said it stands by its earlier claims and will continue to defend its operations against what it calls “misleading reports”.

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Implications for Marketers

Independent marketers who previously relied on direct self-collection from the refinery’s gantry are expected to feel the impact of this policy shift, especially those yet to register for the free delivery scheme.
DAPPMAN members, who own most of Nigeria’s private depots, argue that transporting products from Lagos to other regions adds significant logistics and shipping costs.

As the debate over fuel pricing and distribution continues, the refinery maintains that the suspension is necessary to ensure transparent supply and market stability.

What do you think about Dangote’s decision? Share your thoughts below.

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