Amanze Chinonye
The Dangote Group has moved to allay public concerns over the Federal Government’s newly approved 15 per cent import tariff on petrol and diesel, insisting that the policy will not trigger fuel price hikes.
The Group’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Anthony Chiejina, said the tariff, which was approved by President Bola Tinubu, is aimed at protecting Nigeria’s economy from the dumping of substandard petroleum products and not at creating a monopoly for the Dangote Refinery.
“This 15 per cent tariff is about preventing dumping, not about high pricing,” Chiejina said. “I can assure you that our price will remain stable between now and the end of the year. If at all it changes, it will come lower than what people expect.”
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He dismissed criticisms of the policy as “misplaced populism,” maintaining that it aligns with global standards for safeguarding local industries and encouraging domestic production.
“No nation advocates dumping. Dumping is not good for business, it destroys industrialisation, creates poverty, and eliminates jobs. Every responsible government must protect its industries,” he said.
Chiejina commended President Tinubu for what he described as tactical and focused leadership, saying the decision to impose the tariff was a carefully thought-out step toward securing Nigeria’s energy future. “President Tinubu is highly strategic.
When he decides to act, it’s after due thought and analysis. He’s like a heavyweight boxer who lands precise blows that leave opponents technically knocked out,” he remarked.
According to verified data, the Dangote Refinery currently produces about 45 million litres of petrol and 25 million litres of diesel daily, volumes that the company says are sufficient to meet Nigeria’s domestic demand and guarantee uninterrupted supply. Chiejina said this output, combined with the import duty, would help ensure market stability and reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported fuel that drains foreign reserves.
Responding to claims that the Dangote Group was positioning itself as a monopoly, Chiejina maintained that the company supports fair competition and welcomes new entrants into the refining sector. “Competition is good for everybody.
Fifteen refinery licences have been granted to investors. The sky is wide enough for every bird to fly,” he said. “The problem is that many of these people are rent seekers who prefer cheap money instead of investing. The days of easy profits are gone.”
He described those alleging state capture by the refinery as “alarmists” and “the Nicodemus of our times.” “These people spread falsehood during the day and dine with power at night. It’s deception, and Nigerians must unmask them,” he added.
Chiejina argued that the tariff is a corrective step to end the flooding of Nigeria’s market with low-quality fuel imports, noting that the country and much of Africa have suffered from being “dumping grounds” for global traders.
“Many importers bring in low-quality fuel. Africa spends about $20 billion annually importing fuel. Apart from South Africa and the Dangote Refinery, no African country has a functional refinery. This policy seeks to end that,” he said.
Addressing allegations of internal staff victimisation, the spokesman clarified that recent redeployments within the Group were routine business practices. “We are a large conglomerate with sugar, salt, fertiliser, and refinery operations. Staff transfers are normal. Even I, Anthony Chiejina, can be reassigned anywhere. It’s not punishment,” he explained.
He also highlighted the Group’s expanding continental footprint, revealing that Ethiopian President Abiy Ahmed had invited the company to establish a $2.5 billion fertiliser plant in Ethiopia.
“When Aliko Dangote visits Ethiopia, it’s like a rock star arriving. The people welcome him because they know his investments create jobs and opportunities. It’s ironic that in his home country, some still try to demonise him,” Chiejina noted.
Chiejina, a Knight of St. Lumumba in the Catholic Church, also reacted to recent comments by U.S. President Donald Trump alleging persecution of Christians in Nigeria. “This is an evolving issue, and it’s too early to draw conclusions,” he said.
“The Catholic Bishops’ Conference has consistently spoken against insecurity affecting all Nigerians. What matters is that government must act to protect every life, Christian or otherwise.”
Reaffirming the company’s position, Chiejina said the Dangote Refinery remains committed to stabilising Nigeria’s fuel supply, maintaining product quality, and supporting economic self-reliance. “We remain committed to energy security and industrial progress. Nigerians deserve stability, not shocks,” he concluded.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
