By Marvellous Nyang
July 22, 2024
The Federal Government has directed the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to provide a new report on the sulphur content of diesel produced by the Dangote refinery.
This comes in response to Dangote’s rebuttal of claims that its diesel is of lower quality.
NMDPRA spokesperson George Ene-Ita confirmed that a team of engineers and scientists embedded at the refinery will release updated findings today.
Ene-Ita emphasised that the agency prefers not to engage in media disputes over the matter.
The dispute arose after NMDPRA Chief Executive Farouk Ahmed alleged that Dangote’s diesel contained higher sulphur levels compared to imports.
Dangote has countered these claims, presenting internal test results that show their diesel has 87.6 ppm of sulphur, while imported fuels reportedly have levels exceeding 1,800 ppm.
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Ahmed also noted that Dangote’s refinery, still in the pre-commissioning phase and not yet licensed, is only 45% complete.
He expressed concerns about relying heavily on a single refinery, which he argues could impact energy security and create monopolistic conditions.
In response, Dangote criticised the NMDPRA for favouring imported fuels and undermining local production.
The refinery asserts that its products are of superior quality and meets international standards, challenging the accuracy of certification for imported fuels.
The refinery is seeking crude supplies from Libya and Angola to address domestic shortages and has been increasing exports.
The Federal Government’s demand for a new sulphur content report aims to address the ongoing controversy and ensure transparency in Nigeria’s fuel sector.
