Imported premium motor spirit (PMS) is currently N77 cheaper per liter than petrol from the Dangote Refinery, according to the latest data from the Major Energy Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN).
MEMAN figures released on Friday showed that the landing cost of imported petrol averages N721.80 per liter, while the gantry price of petrol from the Dangote Refinery stands at N799 per liter, reflecting a price gap of N77.2 per liter.
The discrepancy comes despite claims from the refinery itself. Last week, the Dangote Refinery, which processes 650,000 barrels per day, stated that marketers could save at least N77.2 per liter if they sourced petrol directly from its gantry rather than relying on coastal delivery.
The refinery explained that “reliance on coastal delivery, especially within Lagos, introduces avoidable costs with material implications for fuel pricing, consumer welfare, and overall economic well-being.”
The refinery further noted that coastal logistics could add around N75 per liter to the cost of petrol. “If these costs are passed on to consumers, the pump price of PMS could approach N1,000 per liter,” the statement said.
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Independent analysts say the pricing gap highlights both logistical inefficiencies and market dynamics in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector.
Energy economist Dr. Chukwuma Okeke commented, “The difference between imported and refinery petrol underscores the hidden costs of distribution. Logistics, coastal transport, and storage all add to prices, and direct gantry sales could help reduce consumer costs if properly implemented.”
Similarly, petroleum market expert Adebayo Ogunleye noted, “While Dangote Refinery offers competitive pricing at the gantry, the reality on the ground is that coastal delivery and other overheads inflate pump prices.
Policymakers and marketers need to find ways to bridge this gap to make domestic refinery products more accessible to consumers.”
Checks on Sunday in Abuja revealed that petrol continues to sell between N839 and N905 per liter across filling stations, including MRS, NNPC, Ranoil, AA Rano, AP, Mobil, Emedab, Empire Energy, and others, reflecting persistent retail price volatility despite refinery operations.
Experts say this situation highlights the need for more efficient distribution strategies to ensure domestic refining investments translate into lower prices for end-users.