Oil marketers have stated that the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority’s decision to resume petrol and diesel import licences is aimed at bridging supply gaps and averting fuel shortages.

They noted that the measure is intended to compensate for shortfalls, as local refineries are currently unable to satisfy the country’s full domestic petroleum demand, according to Nairameteics.

The marketers emphasized that the move is not meant to hinder the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, but rather reflects current supply realities, particularly as the refinery undergoes a major expansion that limits its capacity to fully meet local needs.

The marketers emphasized that in the downstream sector, the key priorities are the availability and predictability of supply.

They added that a controlled, transparently managed import window helps maintain market liquidity while domestic refineries ramp up and stabilise their operations.

Industry stakeholders noted that imports have become necessary because the Dangote Refinery is still undergoing expansion and is not yet able to consistently meet national demand.

“If they don’t complement this with further importation, Nigeria will run out of stock and that will bring scarcity. This import licensing is timely and strategic.

“If the Federal Government resumes import licences, it should be seen as a gap-management decision, not a reversal of the domestic refining policy. The downstream market must never be allowed to run dry,” oil marketer Ibrahim Gambo said.

It was reported that
Nigeria may start issuing petrol and diesel import permits as early as mid-February 2026.

The reports indicated a shift in supply dynamics and sparked concerns over potential effects on the Dangote Refinery.

Imports had previously been limited to volumes needed to cover shortfalls in domestic refinery production.

The delay in issuing new licences was partly attributed to leadership changes at the NMDPRA, following the departure of former Chief Executive Farouk Ahmed on December 17.

Gambo noted that Nigeria’s daily petrol consumption allows little margin for supply disruptions, regardless of how many refineries are operational.

He added that demand continues even as refineries work through operational challenges.

The resumption of petrol imports highlights Nigeria’s ongoing dependence on foreign refined products, with significant implications for the economy and energy policy.

Although efforts toward self-sufficiency—through large-scale and modular refineries—are underway, continued import reliance strains foreign exchange reserves, contributes to currency depreciation, and drives inflation.

This dependence runs contrary to the long-term goals set out in the Petroleum Industry Act.