The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has secured a groundbreaking agreement with Dangote Refinery, allowing its members direct access to refined petroleum products. Announced on Monday by IPMAN National President Abubakar Garima after the National Working Committee’s strategic meeting, this partnership aims to streamline and stabilize the nationwide distribution of essential products, including Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK).
Garima expressed optimism about the benefits of this partnership, emphasizing that direct supply from Dangote Refinery will help counter recent fuel supply challenges. “We’re pleased to announce that Dangote Refinery has agreed to supply IPMAN with PMS, AGO, and DPK directly for distribution to our depots and retail outlets,” Garima remarked in a statement, as reported by Channels TV. The collaboration, he added, promises a more predictable supply chain, translating to more affordable prices at retail outlets across Nigeria.
The agreement comes after a period of friction between IPMAN and Dangote Refinery. Recently, both IPMAN and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) voiced concerns over Dangote’s pricing strategy, alleging that fuel from the refinery was being sold at rates higher than imported alternatives. These claims stirred considerable public and industry discussion, prompting Dangote Refinery to respond. In a statement on Sunday, Anthony Chiejina, Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer, clarified the company’s stance: “We have typically refrained from engaging in media confrontations, but the recent spread of misinformation compels us to address these claims,” Chiejina explained, emphasizing the refinery’s commitment to fair practices.
Industry observers see this direct-supply agreement as a significant step toward achieving a self-sustaining fuel market in Nigeria, potentially easing the country’s reliance on imported products and enhancing local distribution frameworks. With this collaboration, IPMAN aims to alleviate price volatility and offer a reliable supply chain for Nigerian consumers.