The Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN) is seeking clarity on a recent proposal from Dangote Refinery. The refinery plans to offer free logistics for distributing petrol and diesel across the country.
During a webinar on June 19, 2025, MEMAN’s CEO, Clement Isong, spoke about the importance of clear communication. While he welcomed this initiative, he stressed that details on logistics and pricing need to be transparent. “We want to know how this will work, which regions it will cover, and what the operational details are,” he said.
The webinar, themed “Fair and Healthy Competition in the Nigerian Market,” attracted various stakeholders discussing the evolving energy landscape in Nigeria. Isong applauded Dangote’s innovative move to introduce 4,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) trucks, which aims to improve logistics and sustainability. However, he raised concerns about how this might impact competition within the fuel supply chain.
Transitioning to CNG aligns with Nigeria’s push for cleaner energy. Several MEMAN members are already implementing solar stations and CNG trucks. However, Isong highlighted that infrastructure gaps remain a challenge. He noted that coordinated planning is necessary to support the transition effectively.
Isong’s views echo broader discussions about market dynamics in Nigeria. A recent World Bank presentation revealed that many investors view Nigeria’s market as lacking competition. The country ranked low in a 2024 competition index compared to peers like Egypt and Ghana. This underscores the challenges facing companies operating in this environment.
MEMAN is not only advocating for fair practices but also scrutinizing the potential dominance of a single player in the market. Isong emphasized the need for ongoing dialogue among marketers, regulators, and stakeholders to maintain a balanced competitive landscape.
He believes in the long-term benefits of competition, suggesting it can lead to greater efficiency and sustainability. However, he cautioned that oversight is essential to prevent monopolies. “If fuel prices rise too high, it affects everyone,” he stated, pointing out that energy is crucial for national development.
Isong’s perspective reflects the delicate balance between innovation and market stability. As Nigeria’s energy sector continues to evolve, developments like Dangote’s CNG trucks could reshape fuel logistics. The success of this transition hinges on how well it’s regulated and integrated into national strategies.
In summary, while Dangote’s initiative shows promise, it must be approached with care. Clear communication and collaboration among all parties will be key to ensuring a fair and efficient energy market in Nigeria.
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Clement Isong,Dangote Refinery,Logistics offer,Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN)