The President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has announced plans to introduce electric trucks into the company’s fuel distribution fleet as part of a broader effort to modernize logistics and improve safety across Nigeria’s downstream oil sector.
Dangote made the announcement on Monday during the official deployment of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered trucks from the company’s multi-billion-dollar refinery. The new CNG fleet will be used to deliver refined fuel directly to filling stations across the country a service he says will come at no cost to consumers.
Speaking at the launch event, Dangote confirmed that about 4,000 CNG trucks are expected to land in Nigeria before the end of next month, reinforcing the refinery’s growing logistics footprint.
The move is part of a strategic shift away from older, diesel-powered trucks which he described as outdated and unsafe.
“You can’t tell me to keep using these old trucks,” Dangote said. “And now, if there’s an accident, people want to say sorry? We must protect our investment. Someone could even bring in a faulty truck intentionally, and if it causes an accident, that could derail our progress. We can’t afford that risk.”
Electric Trucks Coming in 2026
While the CNG rollout is already underway, Dangote revealed that the next phase of the plan starting in January will involve the importation of electric vehicles (EVs) for fuel distribution.
“For the next phase of this, from January, we are looking at even electric vehicles,” he said, noting the long-term cost efficiency and safety advantages of EVs over traditional fleets.
Addressing concerns about charging stations and EV infrastructure in Nigeria, Dangote shared a personal encounter with an Uber driver abroad, who used a Tesla and reported spending just €20 to fully charge the vehicle offering a driving range of up to 500 kilometers.
He used the example to illustrate how rapidly technology is evolving and how businesses especially in Africa must adapt or risk falling behind.
“Things have changed, and all of us will have to keep changing because if not, you will become archaic,” Dangote emphasized. “Yes, you have to change.”
Safety, Innovation, and Market Control
The CNG and EV initiatives come at a time when the Dangote Refinery is ramping up domestic fuel supply, positioning itself as a major player in Nigeria’s post-subsidy energy market. The company recently made headlines after accusing fuel marketers of requesting a ₦1.5 trillion indirect subsidy to match Dangote’s lower gantry prices, a claim currently stirring industry debate.
With over 500 million litres of refined product reportedly in storage monthly, the refinery aims to not only meet local demand but also set new standards for fuel delivery and supply chain efficiency.
About the Author
