The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has firmly debunked circulating reports suggesting a total shutdown for maintenance, labeling such claims as “false and misleading” fabrications designed to manipulate the market.
In a comprehensive statement released this week, the 650,000 barrels-per-day facility reaffirmed that its operations remain stable, uninterrupted, and fully capable of meeting Nigeria’s national fuel demand. The refinery management disclosed that on January 4, 2026, the plant produced 50 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and successfully evacuated 48 million litres to depots.
Strategic Maintenance without Disruption
Addressing the “shutdown” rumors, the refinery explained that its sophisticated integrated design allows for “routine maintenance” on specific units—such as the Crude Distillation Unit (CDU)—without halting overall production.
Critical processing units, including the Naphtha Hydrotreater, CCR Reformer, and Hydrocracker, remain fully operational. This ensures a steady flow of high-quality petrol, diesel, and Jet A-1 fuel even as other segments of the massive complex undergo scheduled servicing.
The ₦699 Battle: Dangote vs. Importers
The refinery reiterated its current ex-gantry price of ₦699 per litre, a significant reduction from the ₦828 price point seen in late 2025. Aliko Dangote has positioned this price cut as a direct challenge to fuel importers, whom he accuses of spreading misinformation to justify pump prices as high as ₦1,400 per litre.
“By sourcing PMS locally at ₦699, marketers can pass on real price relief to Nigerians,” the statement noted. The refinery further warned that without domestic refining, the country would be at the mercy of international importers who operate without restraint in a post-subsidy environment.
Energy Security and Stockpile
To allay any fears of a New Year fuel scarcity, the refinery confirmed it currently holds enough stock to cover over 20 days of national consumption. Between December 16, 2025, and early January 2026, the facility has consistently loaded between 31 million and 48 million litres daily, volumes which are fully verifiable by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).