Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals, DPRP has refuted reports suggesting it imports finished petroleum products, describing the allegations as false and misleading.
The refinery reiterated its commitment to producing high-quality, internationally compliant fuel for Nigerians.
Speaking at a media briefing, DPRP Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, David Bird, explained that the refinery’s processing of intermediate or semi-processed feedstocks is standard practice in the global refining industry and does not constitute importing finished products.
Bird emphasized that the refinery operates on a European and Asian merchant refinery model, integrating advanced refining, blending, and trading systems to meet modern environmental and quality standards. “DPRP produces high-quality fuels aligned with international environmental and health standards.”
”Our gasoline is lead-free and MMT-free with 50 parts per million sulphur, while our diesel meets ultra-low sulphur specifications. These standards help reduce emissions, protect engines, and safeguard public health,” he said.
The refinery CEO clarified that semi-finished fuels are unsuitable for vehicles and are not released into the Nigerian market. Samples of both intermediate feedstocks and fully refined products were displayed to journalists during the briefing to demonstrate the difference.
Bird also highlighted DPRP’s role in ending the prevalence of substandard fuel in Nigeria, noting that the refinery’s products are now exported to international markets, reflecting their quality and competitiveness.
He explained that intermediate materials such as naphtha, vacuum gas oil, reformate, alkylate, and isomerate serve as feedstocks for further refining into finished petrol, diesel, and petrochemicals.
The CEO stressed the importance of transparency in operations and engagements with regulators, urging the media to educate the public on the distinction between intermediate feedstocks and finished fuel.
“It is unfortunate that some individuals are deliberately spreading misleading narratives about a refinery that has transformed Nigeria and the West African region into a hub for high-quality products,” he said.
Bird assured Nigerians of continued product availability, noting the refinery’s contribution to easing fuel scarcity, stabilizing the naira, and reducing pressure on foreign exchange.
Group Chief Brand and Communications Officer of Dangote Industries Limited, Anthony Chiejina, also called on journalists to exercise precision in reporting, warning that inaccurate coverage could misinform the public and cause unnecessary panic.
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