Recent developments have heightened controversy over the sale-purchase agreement for premium motor spirit (petrol) between the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and Dangote Refinery.
DISCREPANCY IN SUPPLY FIGURES
The NNPCL claims that Dangote Refinery is unable to supply the agreed amount of petrol, stating that Dangote could only deliver 16.8 million litres out of the 25 million litres initially agreed upon. However, Dangote Refinery reports that it has delivered 111 million litres within three days and continues to load additional petrol.
STRUGGLES AND SURPLUSES
NNPCL sources indicate that the refinery is struggling to meet even the reduced delivery target of 16.8 million litres. In contrast, Dangote’s latest figures suggest that it has significantly surpassed its delivery promises, which could reduce the need for further petrol imports.
INCREASED IMPORTATION BY NNPCL
Despite Dangote’s deliveries, NNPCL has reportedly increased its imports, with over 135 million litres arriving in the past three weeks. This influx comes shortly after a severe shortage that drove up petrol prices.
RESPONSE FROM DANGOTE REFINERY
Anthony Chiejina, Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer at Dangote Refinery, confirmed that 111 million litres of petrol have been loaded and that the refinery will continue to supply the market.
ADDITIONAL IMPORTS
Recent reports show that various vessels have delivered substantial quantities of imported petrol and diesel to Nigeria. This includes vessels such as Mia Grace, Valle Azzurra, and others bringing in significant metric tonnes of petrol.
LACK OF RESPONSE FROM NNPCL
Attempts to get an official response from NNPCL regarding Dangote’s delivery figures were unsuccessful, as the Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Mr. Olufemi Soneye, did not reply to inquiries.