ABUJA, Nigeria — The New Year is bringing a glimmer of hope to Nigerian motorists! The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has announced a bold plan to bring petrol prices down to a maximum of N750 per liter nationwide, starting this January 2026.
The Game-Changer: Direct Sales from Dangote
This projected price drop hinges on a landmark promise from the Dangote Refinery. IPMAN President, Abubakar Maigandi, revealed in an exclusive interview that the refinery is set to begin direct fuel sales to independent marketers this month at a gantry price of N699 per liter.
“Immediately he starts direct delivery, without transport, you will see all this queue will go,” Maigandi stated. He explained that even after adding a N15 transport margin, the product should land at filling stations for approximately N750 per liter, allowing for a significant reduction at the pump.
The Price War: NNPCL vs. Dangote vs. IPMAN
A fierce “price war” is currently reshaping the market, with major players scrambling to stay competitive:
- Dangote-backed MRS: Currently leads the market with the lowest price of N739 per liter.
- NNPC Limited: Recently slashed its Abuja retail price from N835 to N815 per liter to keep pace.
- IPMAN’s Goal: Aims to bridge the gap by offering a N750 cap, ensuring that the “Dangote benefit” finally reaches the majority of Nigerians who patronize independent stations.
Ending the “N900 Per Liter” Era
Despite the recent price cuts by Dangote and NNPCL, many filling stations across Nigeria—especially in remote areas—still dispense fuel for as high as N900 per liter. IPMAN’s move to bypass third-party depots and buy directly from the source is seen as the final step in eliminating these high costs.
“We are waiting for the refinery to supply to independent marketers; it’s going to start in January. That’s the promise he made,” Maigandi added. If successful, this partnership could mark the end of fuel queues and the beginning of a more stable, affordable energy era for the country.
