Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Group, has revealed the reasons behind the clearer appearance of the first sample of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, produced by his refinery in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos. Speaking during a broadcast at the refinery, Dangote explained that the clarity of the petrol indicates its higher quality, making it more environmentally friendly and potentially reducing health risks associated with the use of polluted petroleum products.
Dangote emphasized that the new petrol would also offer better protection for vehicle engines, which are often damaged by the less refined petrol currently available in the market. He showcased the sample, stating, “This is the sample of the petrol. You see it as a different colour, but that is the real deal. You are now going to have a good and genuine product.”
In addition to the petrol, Dangote introduced a new type of diesel, known as Euro-5 diesel, which contains less than 10 parts per million (PPM) of sulphur. He noted that this diesel would help prolong the lifespan of vehicles, engines, and generators. “I am sure Nigerians have not seen this colour of diesel before,” Dangote remarked, highlighting the environmental and health benefits of the cleaner fuel.
Before this presentation, Dangote Group had raised concerns about international oil companies’ preference for selling Nigerian crude oil through foreign agents, leading to higher local crude prices. The group also claimed that foreign producers were prioritizing sales to Asian markets over domestic supply.
The Dangote refinery has been in a dispute with the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) over the alleged inadequate supply of locally sourced crude oil. The Dangote Group accused the NUPRC of failing to enforce Domestic Crude Supply Obligations, despite the commission’s claim that it had facilitated the delivery of over 29 million barrels of crude oil to the refinery from January to June 2024.
The NUPRC has denied the allegations, asserting that it has ensured domestic crude supplies to the Dangote refinery and other refineries through its monthly production curtailment platform.
