The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced the suspension of petrol sales in naira, citing exhaustion of its crude-for-naira allocation. The suspension, effective from Sunday, September 28, 2025, was communicated to customers in an official notice on Friday evening.
According to the refinery’s management, it had been selling petroleum products beyond its naira-crude allocation and could no longer sustain such transactions. Customers with pending naira-based transactions have been advised to request refunds.
The notice, signed by the Group Commercial Operations of Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals, stated:
“Kindly note that this suspension of Naira sales for PMS will be effective from Sunday, 28th of September, 2025. We will provide further updates regarding the resumption of supply once the situation has been resolved.”
This decision has fueled concerns over potential petrol price hikes, with estimates suggesting pump prices could rise above ₦900 per litre if sales shift fully to dollar transactions.
The suspension comes amid tensions between the refinery and labour unions, following reports of mass sackings of over 800 Nigerian workers. While unions have threatened nationwide protests, Dangote Refinery described the move as a workforce reorganisation aimed at addressing acts of sabotage and ensuring operational efficiency.
Management emphasized that the refinery remains a strategic national asset, employing over 3,000 Nigerians, with ongoing recruitment for new roles.
This is not the first time the refinery has halted local currency transactions. A similar suspension occurred in March 2025 due to crude allocation challenges.
Industry analysts warn that the development could worsen foreign exchange pressures and complicate Nigeria’s efforts to stabilize fuel pricing.
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