Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals has commenced receiving 4,000 compressed natural gas-powered trucks, an integral part of its fuel distribution logistics programme.
The initiative, set to start on August 15, aims to transform the fuel distribution landscape within Nigeria by reducing logistics costs and enhancing supply efficiency for customers.
The fleet of fuel tankers, being imported through Apapa Port, represents a significant capital investment estimated at N720 billion. This expenditure underscores the company’s commitment to pioneering innovative solutions as its largest single-train refinery expands its operational capabilities.
The first truck consignment was received at the refinery site by Devakumar Edwin, vice president of Oil and Gas at Dangote Industries Limited.
Speaking on the rollout, group chief of branding and communication, Dangote Industries Limited,
Anthony Chiejina, provided further insights into the implementation strategy, saying “The commencement of the initiative marks a groundbreaking development in Nigeria’s fuel distribution network.
“Given the complexities inherent in global supply chains, delivering these specialised CNG-powered tankers is commendable. 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 the refinery expects at least sixty shiploads of these trucks to arrive in the country over the next six weeks.
Chiejina pointed out that this innovative distribution model is expected to catalyse efficiency gains across Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector, foster greater transparency, reduce transportation bottlenecks, and ultimately enhance the nation’s energy security.
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 yearly 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.”
The Company disclosed that “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 inflation, and stimulate 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.”
The Refinery also 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 stated that “Dangote Group’s acquisition of 4,000 CNG trucks is not only impressive in scale but also highly strategic.”
He noted, “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 accelerating gas-powered transport adoption.”
