Many Nigerians are reportedly avoiding Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) supplied by the Dangote Refinery. This trend is observed at several filling stations. The primary reason for this shift is the higher pump prices of Dangote-sourced fuel.
This situation has led to a noticeable decline in customer traffic at MRS filling stations. Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, has been particularly affected, as confirmed by a Daily Post report.
MRS is a retail outlet owned by Alhaji Sayyu Idris Dantata. He is the half-brother of Aliko Dangote, Chairman of Dangote Refinery. Currently, MRS sells petrol at a significantly higher price than its competitors.
Observations made during visits to MRS outlets on the Kubwa Expressway and in Lugbe revealed the pricing. Petrol was being sold at ₦945 per litre.
This price represents a ₦25 difference compared to nearby stations. Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and AA RANO stations, for instance, have reduced their fuel prices to ₦920 per litre.
A manager at one of the MRS stations, who requested anonymity, confirmed the impact. He stated that the higher price has caused a sharp drop in customer turnout. This decline has been ongoing since November 2025.
“Our patronage has dropped,” the manager told Daily Post. “Queues have reduced because our price is higher.” He added that management issued a circular to reduce the pump price to ₦920. However, this directive has not yet been implemented. “We hope it will be reviewed soon to boost sales,” he concluded.
This reported decrease in patronage is notable. It occurs even though the Dangote Refinery’s ex-depot price remains competitive. As of Monday, December 8, 2025, its ex-depot price was ₦826 per litre. This figure is comparable to other suppliers like Aiteo (₦825) and MENJ (₦835).
Concerns Over Unstable Fuel Pricing
Billy Gillis-Harry is the National President of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN). He confirmed that unstable PMS pricing is a major concern. It significantly impacts the downstream sector of the petroleum industry.
Gillis-Harry cautioned Nigerians against focusing solely on cheaper prices. He argued that unrealistic pricing could eventually lead to deeper supply problems across the nation.
He advised, “We must stabilize PMS pricing.” He further appealed to Nigerians: “Don’t let a cheap price deceive you.” He warned that “if pricing is not accurate, the effects will show in the coming weeks and months.”
NNPCL and several other stations have reduced fuel prices twice recently. These reductions happened in the last two weeks. Consequently, pump prices in the Abuja area now range between ₦920 and ₦945.
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