*Eyes refinery ownership, ready for direct fuel supplies by Dangote
WorldStage– The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) is seeking regulatory approval and policy support from the new leadership of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
The Senate had earlier confirmed the appointment of Oritsemeyiwa Amanorisewo Eyesan as CEO of Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission.
It also confirmed Saidu Aliyu Mohammed as CEO of Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Regulatory Agency.
The confirmation process was expedited and done within 24 hours was sequel to the recommendation of the Joint committees on Petroleum Upstream, Downstream and Gas.
President Tinubu appointed the Eyesan and Aliyu on Wednesday this week, to fill the vacancy created following the resignation of the erstwhile heads of the two Regulators.
IPMAN’s National President, Abubakar Maigandi Shettima also announce at a press conference in Abuja plans to enter refinery ownership, a move that could significantly reshape Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector and accelerate the country’s push toward fuel self-sufficiency.
According to Shettima, the initiative would enable independent marketers to invest in and operate refineries, expand domestic refining capacity, and substantially reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products.
He said the proposal aligns with ongoing sector reforms aimed at stabilizing fuel supply, improving price efficiency, and strengthening local value chains.
Industry analysts note that IPMAN’s entry into refining, if approved would mark a major shift, given the association’s extensive footprint across the country’s fuel retail market.
In a related development, IPMAN has directed its members to prioritize the purchase of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, from the Dangote Refinery, citing competitive pricing and supply reliability.
Independent marketers are estimated to control more than 80 percent of Nigeria’s petrol retail outlets, giving the directive significant market impact.
Shettima also announced that from January 2026, the Dangote Refinery will commence direct supply to registered IPMAN members, including free delivery to filling stations nationwide.
The arrangement is expected to improve logistics efficiency, stabilize product availability, and potentially ease pump prices for consumers.
The twin developments, IPMAN’s refinery ambition and its alignment with Dangote’s domestic supply strategy underscore a broader transition in Nigeria’s petroleum industry toward local refining and reduced imports.
Stakeholders say that if regulatory approvals are secured, the moves could deepen competition, attract new investment, and reinforce Nigeria’s long-standing goal of energy self-sufficiency.
