The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has opened talks with Azikel Refinery for a structured offtake partnership to supply locally refined petroleum products to retail outlets across the country.
The PETROAN delegation led by its National President, Dr Billy Gillis Harry, visited the refinery in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, where it was received by the Chairman of Azikel Refinery, Dr Eruani Azibapu Godbless and members of the refinery management team.
In a statement issued on Tuesday after the visit by the Special Adviser Media, Mr Chris Odia and National PRO, Dr Joseph Obele, PETROAN said discussions focused on the development and operational plans of the refinery and opportunities for stronger collaboration with retail outlets.
A major part of the meeting was the proposed offtake arrangement under which members of PETROAN would have access to petroleum products from the refinery based on mutually agreed commercial, technical and operational terms.
Speaking during the visit, Dr Gillis Harry said the association was committed to working with indigenous refineries to strengthen the downstream sector and improve access to locally refined products.
“The growth of domestic refining capacity presents an important opportunity for Nigeria. As retailers we want to build practical partnerships with indigenous refineries that can improve product availability, strengthen supply chains and create greater certainty for businesses and consumers,” he said.
He added that the engagement was aimed at building a sustainable and commercially viable relationship.
“Our objective is not simply to discuss offtake. We want to establish a dependable supply relationship that works commercially for the refinery and gives our members greater confidence in planning their businesses,” he stated.
In his response, Dr Eruani Azibapu welcomed the PETROAN delegation and emphasised the importance of building strategic relationships with retail outlet owners as the refinery progresses with its operations.
Both parties agreed on the need for continued engagement to address commercial and operational requirements for the proposed partnership.
According to PETROAN, the talks come amid efforts to expand domestic refining capacity and strengthen local supply, noting that collaboration with indigenous refineries forms part of its broader engagement with stakeholders across the downstream value chain.
The association said it would continue to engage domestic refineries, government institutions and other industry players to promote a more efficient, competitive and sustainable petroleum products market in Nigeria.
