The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has clarified the status of oil lifting operations from Dangote Refinery. Contrary to previous reports, IPMAN stated that it has not commenced lifting oil products from the refinery.
According to IPMAN Chairman Abubakar Maigandi, the association is still in discussions with Dangote Refinery regarding the commencement of oil lifting operations. Maigandi emphasized that negotiations are ongoing to reach a favorable agreement for all parties involved.
Earlier reports had suggested that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) would soon terminate its exclusive offtake agreement with the refinery. This led to speculation that other marketers, including IPMAN members, would be able to purchase oil directly from the refinery.
However, Maigandi confirmed that NNPCL remains the sole offtaker of oil products from Dangote Refinery. IPMAN members will continue to operate in a retail capacity, purchasing oil products from NNPCL.
Maigandi stressed that IPMAN is working closely with the refinery’s leadership to enable future lifting operations. He expressed confidence that a mutually beneficial agreement would be reached.
As of now, IPMAN members cannot purchase oil directly from Dangote Refinery. Instead, they must go through NNPCL, which acts as an intermediary in the oil offtake process.
Maigandi cited a recent example where NNPCL requested that IPMAN send tankers to the refinery for oil lifting. This demonstrates that NNPCL remains an essential part of the oil distribution process.
The ongoing negotiations between IPMAN and Dangote Refinery are expected to yield positive results, enhancing the oil distribution framework in Nigeria. The outcome will likely impact the country’s petroleum market and stakeholders.
