Dangote Refinery denies exporting petrol to Togo for re-import into Nigeria
Dangote Refinery has rejected allegations that it exports petrol to Lomé, Togo, only to re-import it into Nigeria, calling the claims "baseless" and "unsubstantiated." The refinery issued the denial yesterday, stating such trade makes no commercial sense given the $82-$90 per tonne cost of round-trip shipping, storage and handling.
The clarification comes as Nigerians face persistently high fuel prices despite global oil prices dropping after the US-Iran ceasefire earlier this year. Petrol, which sold for about ₦870/litre before the crisis, peaked near ₦1,500/litre and currently sells for around ₦1,340/litre in Abuja and other major cities. Many expected prices to fall with Brent crude now trading between $74.95-$75.07 per barrel.
Dangote Refinery argues moving products to Togo and back would increase costs and reduce profits, directly contradicting its business interest as a major domestic supplier. Its sales contracts explicitly prohibit resale or re-import into Nigeria, and it maintains detailed sales records to prevent such practices. The refinery insists the claims ignore trade economics, contractual terms, and its commitment to reducing Nigeria's reliance on fuel imports.
With filling stations nationwide charging over ₦1,300/litre, will you adjust your travel plans, seek fuel-efficient alternatives, or absorb the continued cost burden as global oil prices remain relatively stable?