In a significant development, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has commenced the deployment of trucks to the Dangote Refinery’s fuel loading gantry in Ibeju-Lekki, ahead of the scheduled petrol loading on September 15, 2024.
As of Saturday afternoon, over 100 trucks have been mobilized to the refinery, with hundreds more expected to arrive throughout the weekend. By the end of the day, at least 300 trucks will be stationed at the refinery, ready to commence loading operations tomorrow.
This move is seen as a strategic effort by the NNPC to ensure a seamless distribution of petrol across the country, following the recent fuel price hike. The Dangote Refinery, which is set to commence operations tomorrow, is expected to significantly boost the nation’s fuel production capacity.
The NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, confirmed the development, stating that the company has started deploying trucks and vessels to the refinery to lift petrol. “Our trucks and personnel are already on site, ready to begin lifting. We are expecting more trucks, and the deployment will continue throughout the weekend,” Soneye said.
This development is expected to bring relief to motorists and commuters who have been grappling with fuel scarcity and long queues at filling stations. The NNPC has assured Nigerians of its commitment to ensuring a steady supply of fuel, despite the challenges posed by the recent price hike.