*Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited emphasises the CNG-powered truck initiative totalling capital investment estimated at N720 billion, aims to transform the fuel distribution landscape within Nigeria, reducing costs of logistics while enhancing supply efficiency for energy consumers

Isola Moses | 绿帽献妻

Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited has commenced the receipt of 4,000 compressed natural gas powered trucks, an integral part of its fuel distribution logistics programme set to start August 15.

The initiative aims to transform the fuel distribution landscape within Nigeria by reducing logistics costs and enhancing supply efficiency for customers.

The fleet of fuel tankers, being imported through Apapa Port, represents a significant capital investment estimated at N720 billion.

Dangote Group, in a statement Sunday, August 10, 2025, said that the expenditure underscored the company鈥檚 commitment to pioneering innovative solutions as the world鈥檚 largest single-train refinery continues to expand its operational capabilities.

Devakumar Edwin, Vice-President of Oil and Gas at Dangote Industries Limited, formally received the first consignment of the CNG trucks, which recently departed Apapa Port, in Lagos.

The statement noted the arrival was met with enthusiasm from refinery personnel and customers alike, many of whom were present to witness the tangible progress towards improved fuel accessibility.

Members of the public who observed the convoy鈥檚 journey from Apapa to Ibeju-Lekki commended Dangote for his proactive approach in addressing the chronic logistical challenges that have long impeded the downstream petroleum sector.

Speaking on the CNG trucks rollout, Mr. Anthony Chiejina, Group Chief of Branding and Communications at Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), provided further insights into the implementation strategy.

Chiejina said: 鈥淭he commencement of the initiative marks a groundbreaking development in Nigeria鈥檚 fuel distribution network. “Given the complexities inherent in global supply chains, the delivery of these specialised CNG-powered tankers is indeed commendable.”

He also stated: “This approach ensures that we maintain operational efficiency while scaling up the fleet.

鈥淥ur unwavering commitment to this programme is reflected in our ongoing collaboration with key regulatory bodies and stakeholders to facilitate seamless deployment.

“We believe this initiative will significantly lower distribution costs and improve fuel availability for our customers nationwide.鈥�

The Group Chief of Branding and Communications noted that over the next six weeks, Dangote Refinery expects at least 60 shiploads of these trucks to arrive in the West African country.

The Group said the innovative distribution model was expected to catalyse efficiency gains across Nigeria鈥檚 downstream petroleum sector, fostering greater transparency, reducing transportation bottlenecks, and ultimately enhancing energy security for the country.

It us recalled that Dangote Petroleum Refinery, June this year revealed a landmark investment exceeding N720 billion to deploy 4,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered trucks across Nigeria for the nationwide distribution of petroleum products.

This bold initiative is projected to save Nigerians over N1.7 trillion annually in fuel distribution costs.

The privately owned refinery will absorb more than N1.07 trillion every year in fuel logistics expenses.

The scheme is expected to significantly benefit over 42 million Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by lowering energy costs and improving profitability.

This strategic programme is part of Dangote鈥檚 broader commitment to eliminating logistics bottlenecks, enhancing energy efficiency, promoting environmental sustainability, and supporting Nigeria鈥檚 economic development.

Lower fuel distribution costs will reduce production expenses, alleviate inflationary pressures, and stimulate overall economic growth.

The initiative is also expected to revitalise dormant filling stations, creating over 15,000 direct jobs across the logistics value chain, including positions for drivers, station managers, and attendants at the new CNG stations.

Moreover, the refinery said that the programme would help curb cross-border smuggling of petroleum products while supporting a more efficient and environmentally friendly distribution system.

Commercial Coordinator of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI), Tosin Coker, commended the move.

Coker stated: 鈥淒angote Group鈥檚 acquisition of 4,000 CNG trucks is not only impressive in scale but also highly strategic,鈥� he said.

鈥淚t signals to the market that CNG is no longer a distant prospect but a current, practical solution to high energy costs, emissions, and supply chain challenges.

“PCNGI regards this as a milestone achievement in our efforts to accelerate gas-powered transport adoption.鈥�