Lagos — AA Rano Nigeria, a leading downstream petroleum marketing company, has unveiled what it describes as the country’s first fully automated and unmanned fuel stations, marking a significant step in the digital transformation of Nigeria’s fuel retail sector.
The initiative is being implemented through a strategic partnership with Nigerian technology firm Petrosoft Limited, a provider of downstream oil and gas management systems. Under the agreement, Petrosoft will deploy its SmartPump technology across AA Rano’s retail outlets nationwide.
According to the companies, the unmanned stations are scheduled to become operational in January 2026 and will offer 24-hour self-service fuelling, contactless payment options, and real-time transaction monitoring. The system eliminates the need for on-site fuel attendants and is designed to improve efficiency and accountability in fuel dispensing.
AA Rano said the technology will enhance transparency in fuel sales, reduce operational inefficiencies, and address long-standing consumer concerns over under-dispensing by ensuring customers receive the exact volume of fuel paid for.
Industry analysts note that the move could signal a broader shift toward automation in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector, as operators seek to leverage technology to cut costs, improve service delivery, and rebuild consumer trust amid ongoing reforms in the energy market.