The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has denied reports that it imported finished premium motor spirit (PMS) with high sulphur content into Nigeria, describing the claims as false and misleading.

In a statement released on Friday, the refinery clarified that the shipment in question was not finished petrol, but an intermediate feedstock requiring further processing before it can be used as fuel.

“Dangote Petroleum Refinery has noted reports claiming it is importing finished petrol (PMS) with high sulphur content into Nigeria. These reports are false, malicious, and misleading,” the statement read.

Explaining the distinction, the refinery noted that intermediate feedstock is an unrefined product which must undergo further refining to achieve the quality and standards required of finished fuels.

“As a world-scale complex refinery, Dangote processes a range of crude oils and intermediate feedstocks, a standard global practice aimed at optimising production and quality,” the statement said.

The company emphasised its willingness to make relevant documents publicly available to support claims of transparency and regulatory compliance.

“The cargo in question is an intermediate feedstock, not finished petrol, and will be fully refined in our units to meet Nigerian and international quality standards,” it stated.

According to the refinery, all imports are accompanied by quality certificates, which are shared with relevant regulatory authorities, and the refinery maintains adherence to both national and international standards.

“Our exports of petroleum products to the United States and Europe, among the world’s most regulated markets, underscore our adherence to global benchmarks,” the statement noted.

The refinery further reaffirmed its commitment to advancing Nigeria’s energy independence while maintaining high standards of fuel quality. It also stated that its operations within the free trade zone enable the production of cleaner fuels for both domestic consumption and international markets.

Dangote Petroleum Refinery concluded that it continues to operate under stringent quality control measures to ensure that all products meet prescribed specifications, underscoring its position as a major contributor to the country’s petroleum supply chain.