By Seyi Gesinde
September 3, 2024
In a significant development for Nigeria’s energy sector, Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group, has presented the first sample of petrol produced by the Dangote Refinery.
The event held on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at Dangote Refinery, located in Lekki Free Trade Zone, Lagos, marked a significant milestone for Nigeria’s energy sector.
The Dangote Refinery, the country’s first private fuel producer, has introduced petrol that is notably clearer than previous offerings.
This improvement not only enhances the visual quality but also reinforces the refinery’s commitment to delivering high-quality, environmentally friendly fuel.
“For the first time in 28 years, Nigeria is producing petroleum spirits, and this achievement is truly momentous,” Dangote stated during the unveiling ceremony.
He highlighted the historical significance of the event, noting, “The fuel queues that have plagued the country since 1974 are expected to be eliminated with the consistent production of petrol locally.”
Dangote also spoke on the superior quality of the refinery’s petrol, which is free from impurities.
“This advancement will improve public health, ensure a consistent supply to the market, and reflect the true demand for PMS, thereby eliminating fraudulent transactions,” he explained.
Furthermore, Dangote emphasized that the refinery’s output will contribute to stabilizing the naira, correcting currency distortions, and fostering economic growth and development.
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The petrol’s higher quality is evident from its clearer appearance, setting it apart from the typically unclear petrol available in the market.
The refinery’s production adheres to Euro-5 standards, which impose stringent sulfur content limits.
The Euro-5 diesel produced by the refinery contains less than 10 parts per million (PPM) of sulfur, ensuring a cleaner and more environmentally sustainable product.
The benefits of this clearer petrol extend beyond aesthetics, reducing toxic emissions, protecting vehicle engines from damage, and mitigating health risks associated with polluted petroleum products.
The refinery’s operations are also expected to enhance the monitoring of fuel consumption and distribution, promoting greater transparency and accountability.
This will provide a more accurate understanding of fuel consumption patterns in Nigeria and across sub-Saharan Africa, further contributing to the reliability of the fuel supply.
Addressing the media at the presentation, Dangote underscored the superior quality of the fuel, stating, “Most Nigerians have never seen diesel of this colour. This Euro-5 diesel, with less than 10 PPM of sulfur, represents a significant leap forward.”
He added, “This petrol will greatly benefit vehicle engines, generators, public health, and the environment by reducing pollution.”
In conclusion, the clearer appearance of the petrol produced by the Dangote Refinery is a testament to its higher quality, adherence to Euro-5 standards, and the refinery’s dedication to producing environmentally friendly and healthier fuel options.
