Dangote Group has announced that its oil refinery has started producing petrol for supply, according to Anthony Chiejina, Chief Branding and Communications Officer.
Thediscovererng.com reports that this news comes as a relief amidst the ongoing fuel scarcity crisis in Nigeria, which has caused widespread disruptions and frustration among citizens.
The refinery, which had undergone test runs for petrol production since August 22, is expected to operate at full capacity by mid-September. Despite initial delays and postponements, the commencement of production marks a major milestone for the Dangote Group and Nigeria’s oil industry.
Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest person, had previously announced that the refinery would begin producing petrol in June, stating that Nigeria would no longer need to import the product. However, minor delays pushed the commencement date to July, and later to August.
The recent fuel scarcity in Nigeria, which began in May, has been attributed to contractual issues between mother and daughter vessels, according to PENGASSAN. The situation worsened on September 1, with reports of a $6 billion debt owed by NNPC to suppliers, which the corporation admitted to two weeks after initially denying it.
Dangote Refinery’s petrol production is expected to alleviate the fuel scarcity crisis and provide relief to Nigerians. As the situation continues to unfold, we will provide updates and insights into the development.
