The Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) has appealed to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery to sell fuel at more affordable rates and open up supply channels through existing depots across the country.

Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Wednesday, DAPPMAN spokesperson, Ikem Ohia, emphasized that transparent and inclusive distribution is key to ending the recurring fuel queues that plague Nigerians.

“Our interest is simple—let petroleum products be consistently available at fair prices, so Nigerians no longer queue endlessly for fuel,” Ohia said, while dismissing claims of a rift between marketers and the refinery.

Ohia acknowledged Dangote’s dominant role as the country’s largest fuel supplier but raised concerns over the current model that limits supply to only a few partners.

“The question is: at what price are we able to buy, and do we even have access to purchase these products from him?” he queried.

He noted that for over 20 years, DAPPMAN members have invested heavily in robust distribution networks with depots in Lagos, Warri, Port Harcourt, and Calabar. He urged Dangote to tap into this infrastructure to ensure wider and more efficient distribution.

“What we are asking Dangote to do is to use these depots that already exist to meet the fuel needs of Nigerians,” he stressed.

On accusations that marketers were lobbying for subsidies, Ohia clarified that their demands are strictly commercial.

“We are businessmen; he is a businessman. We’re not asking for subsidies. Negotiations are ongoing on how he can bridge the pricing gap,” he explained.

Ohia further pointed out that globally, refineries rely on bulk supply to off-takers alongside retail sales. Nigeria, he argued, should not be an exception.

“Ideally, refineries emphasize bulk evacuation through off-takers who can lift massive quantities and ensure continuous production. Retail gantry sales alone cannot meet Nigeria’s demand,” he added.

The appeal comes as Nigerians continue to grapple with rising pump prices and inconsistent fuel availability, raising questions about how the Dangote Refinery—touted as a game-changer for the nation’s oil sector—will meet public expectations.