The Rivers State Chapter of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has expressed strong support for the Dangote Petroleum Refinery’s upcoming initiative to commence free nationwide distribution of petrol and diesel. This program, set to begin on August 15, 2025, is seen as a major step forward for the downstream petroleum sector in Nigeria, particularly benefiting independent marketers, large-scale consumers, and dealers.
In a formal statement, IPMAN Chairman in Rivers State, Mr. Tekena Ikpaki, praised Dangote Refinery for the bold move, emphasizing that it directly addresses several persistent challenges faced by the sector. These include irregular fuel supply, high transportation expenses, infrastructural limitations, and unstable market prices. He stated that the initiative would help improve supply chain efficiency and offer an alternative, reliable source of fuel, thereby reducing overreliance on a single supplier.
A critical component of the program is the deployment of 4,000 new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered tankers. IPMAN lauded this move as not only environmentally responsible but also strategically aligned with global energy sustainability trends. Ikpaki noted that this modern logistics upgrade would significantly enhance fuel distribution across Nigeria, enabling more timely and affordable delivery of petroleum products to consumers.
The association highlighted that the Dangote Refinery, due to its position as a dominant player in Nigeria’s refining and fuel supply landscape, is uniquely positioned to make a transformational impact on national energy security. According to IPMAN, the refinery’s partnership with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) demonstrates the power of effective public-private collaboration to drive meaningful national development.
IPMAN also acknowledged the free distribution scheme as an opportunity to foster healthy market competition. By offering marketers diverse product sources, the initiative encourages a more flexible and competitive petroleum supply chain, which could lead to better pricing and service outcomes for end-users. However, the association stressed the importance of transparency and inclusiveness in the implementation of the program. It called on all stakeholders, including government regulators, to ensure that the benefits of the initiative reach independent marketers across all geopolitical zones of the country.
In addition, IPMAN affirmed its continued support for investments that strengthen the efficiency of Nigeria’s petroleum supply chain, including improvements in infrastructure, pricing systems, and logistics. The association urged ongoing regulatory oversight to ensure fair competition and prevent market dominance by any single entity.
Lastly, the association noted that the Dangote Refinery’s free distribution initiative complements the NNPCL’s Crude-for-Naira program, which aims to stabilize the national currency and guarantee steady fuel availability. IPMAN expressed optimism that these collective efforts would significantly support Nigeria’s economic recovery and strengthen its energy independence.