Billy Gillis-Harry: Dangote’s New Fuel Model Is Welcome, But Collaboration and Fair Regulation Are Key

Billy Gillis-Harry, President of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN), has weighed in on the Dangote Petroleum Refinery’s announcement to begin direct distribution of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and diesel nationwide. In an interview session, Gillis-Harry emphasized that while PETROAN welcomes Dangote’s initiative, its success will depend on stakeholder collaboration, transparent practices, and strict adherence to regulation.

Dangote’s plan, which includes free logistics using 4,000 new CNG-powered tankers and investments in daughter booster stations and over 100 CNG trucks, aims to streamline product delivery to marketers, manufacturers, telecom operators, aviation firms, and other large users. While the move has been described as disruptive, Gillis-Harry cautioned against blanket criticism of existing marketers.

“The assumption that marketers thrive on arbitrage or depot manipulation is misleading,” he said. “PETROAN members work hard to deliver products even to Nigeria’s most difficult terrains, tackling financing, logistics, security, and timing challenges daily. Accusations must be backed by verified data, not generalizations.”

Gillis-Harry reiterated PETROAN’s long-standing support for domestic refining. “We championed efforts to rehabilitate our refineries, visited facilities, asked tough technical questions, and encouraged completion of these national assets. Our position has always been patriotic.”

On logistics, he urged government intervention. “It’s unrealistic to expect Dangote alone to solve distribution challenges with trucks. The government should develop rail and waterway infrastructure to ease pressure on our roads. Dangote has done his part with massive investment; now, the government must complement this effort.”

Speaking on pricing, Gillis-Harry called for strict enforcement of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). “Current pricing models aren’t fully compliant with Section 207 of the PIA, and that’s part of why we see variations. PETROAN is committed to fair pricing that reflects true business costs, ensuring sustainability for operators and affordability for Nigerians.”

He concluded by calling for unity. “Dangote is not the regulator. It’s up to regulators to ensure fair play. PETROAN stands ready to work with all stakeholders to build a fuel distribution system that serves Nigerians today and into the future.”