The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced the suspension of petrol sales in naira, a decision that could shake Nigeria’s downstream oil sector and intensify concerns over rising fuel prices.
In a notice sent to customers at 6:42 pm on Friday, the refinery said the halt will take effect from Sunday, September 28, 2025. The company attributed the move to the exhaustion of its crude-for-naira allocation, explaining that it had been selling more petrol in naira than its allocated quota allowed.
The statement, issued by the Group Commercial Operations of Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals, was titled: “Suspension of DPRP PMS Naira Sales – Effective 28th September 2025.”
“All customers with ongoing naira-based transactions who wish to receive refunds are advised to formally request processing,” the company said, promising to provide updates on when sales in naira would resume.
This marks the second time in 2025 that the refinery is halting local currency sales. A similar suspension in March triggered a sharp rise in pump prices — with petrol selling for nearly ₦1,000 per litre — and fueled fears of increased dollarisation of Nigeria’s fuel market.
Energy experts warn the latest decision could again drive up prices. Jeremiah Olatide, CEO of Petroleumprice.ng, cautioned that petrol could exceed ₦900 per litre, noting that the refinery had been critical in stabilising prices in recent months.
The development comes amid a heated labour dispute at the refinery. The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) on Friday accused the company of laying off over 800 Nigerian workers and threatened nationwide protests unless the action is reversed.
Stakeholders say the twin challenges of naira sales suspension and industrial unrest may undermine government efforts to stabilise the fuel market and ensure energy security.
