Dangote Refinery Surprises Nigerians, Promises to Refund Overcharged Customers by Ardova Plc, Heyden, and MRS

Dangote Refinery has announced it will refund customers who have paid more than the advertised fuel prices at any of its key partners, including Ardova Plc, Heyden, and MRS stations across Nigeria. This initiative, effective from February 27, 2025, is a response to widespread concerns over petrol price hikes, with Dangote promising to address the discrepancies between the actual fuel price and the amount consumers have been charged. Nigerians who have been overcharged can now call the designated refund numbers – +234 707 470 2099 and +234 707 470 2100 – and provide a receipt to receive the difference back.

The company’s commitment to ensuring that Nigerians benefit from fair fuel prices comes at a crucial time, as the country navigates complex economic and energy challenges. In addition to refunding customers who were charged more than the official rates, Dangote Refinery has also signaled its intention to expand its partnership network by bringing additional marketers on board. This move is expected to create a more streamlined and transparent fuel distribution system, ensuring that consumers are not short-changed at the pumps.

Refund Process Details: What You Need to Know

To facilitate the refund process, Dangote Refinery has put in place a straightforward procedure for consumers who believe they have paid more than the approved fuel rates. Customers are required to present a payment receipt that includes the name of the fueling station where the transaction occurred. This documentation will be essential for processing the refund, ensuring that only valid claims are honored. The refund can be processed by contacting the provided phone numbers, ensuring quick and efficient customer service.

Consumers are advised to take note of the approved fuel rates at different locations throughout Nigeria. These rates are as follows: MRS stations will charge N860 per litre in Lagos, N870 in the South-West, N880 in the North, and N890 in the South-South and South-East. Similarly, Heyden and Ardova stations will charge N865 in Lagos, N875 in the South-West, N885 in the North, and N895 in the South-South and South-East. The aim is to ensure that no one pays more than N900 per litre for petrol, regardless of where they are in the country.

The Financial Impact: N16 Billion Loss for Dangote Refinery

While this refund initiative is seen as a major step forward in ensuring fair pricing for fuel consumers, it comes at a significant financial cost to Dangote Refinery. According to the refinery’s statement, the company will incur a loss of N16 billion by reimbursing marketers N65 per litre for over 200,000 metric tonnes of petrol that was acquired at the previous gantry price of N890 per litre. Despite this loss, Dangote remains committed to ensuring that Nigerians benefit from affordable fuel prices.

This action highlights the refinery’s dedication to the well-being of Nigerians, as it is prepared to absorb substantial financial losses to protect consumers from unfair pricing practices. The refinery has emphasized that the new price adjustment should be seen as a positive development for the Nigerian economy, as it ensures that fuel costs are kept at manageable levels for everyday Nigerians.

Fighting Excessive Profiteering: Dangote’s Stance on Price Gouging

Dangote Refinery has been vocal in its criticism of excessive profiteering by some fuel retailers, particularly those who purchase petrol at the approved rate of N825 per litre and then sell it to consumers for much higher prices. The company has termed such practices “unpatriotic” and damaging to the welfare of Nigerians. According to Dangote, any fuel retailer found selling petrol at prices exceeding N945 per litre is exploiting Nigerians for personal gain, further straining the already difficult economic conditions.

In its statement, Dangote stressed that the actions of these unscrupulous retailers are detrimental to the public and undermine the national effort to keep fuel prices in check. The refinery aims to safeguard the interests of the Nigerian people by working closely with its partners to ensure that fuel prices do not spiral out of control, and consumers are protected from price gouging.

Supporting Nigeria’s Energy Independence: A National Commitment

Dangote Refinery’s price reduction initiative aligns with the broader objectives of Nigeria’s energy strategy, particularly President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. This agenda aims to foster self-sufficiency in critical sectors such as energy, and Dangote’s efforts to make fuel more affordable is a direct contribution to this goal. By providing Nigerians with access to affordable, high-quality fuel, Dangote Refinery is playing a pivotal role in the country’s energy future.

As Nigeria continues its journey toward energy security, Dangote Refinery remains committed to supporting the country’s economic growth. The refinery’s move to stabilize fuel prices is a testament to its dedication to providing lasting solutions that will benefit both the economy and the citizens of Nigeria for years to come.

The Road Ahead: Strengthening Nigeria’s Energy Sector

Looking ahead, Dangote Refinery is optimistic about the future of Nigeria’s energy sector and the role it will play in ensuring that the country achieves greater self-reliance in energy production and distribution. By collaborating with other key stakeholders, including fuel marketers and the government, Dangote plans to build a more robust fuel supply chain that will benefit both consumers and the broader Nigerian economy.

With a focus on high-quality, eco-friendly fuel that supports vehicle performance and public health, Dangote is dedicated to providing solutions that not only address the current fuel crisis but also create a more sustainable energy future for Nigeria. The refinery’s commitment to this mission reflects its ongoing dedication to the Nigerian people and the nation’s long-term energy security.