FG approves fresh petrol imports over supply shortfall fears

The federal government thas approved a fresh round of petrol and diesel import permits for major oil marketers as concerns grow over possible supply shortages in the country.

The approvals, issued through the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), cover the third quarter of 2026 and are aimed at maintaining adequate fuel supply across the country.

Industry sources said the decision followed signs of tightening fuel inventories and a decline in domestic petrol production, particularly from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, which has reportedly scaled down gasoline output due to maintenance activities.

Companies granted approval to import petrol include AA Rano, AYM Shafa, Bono Energy, Nipco, Matrix Energy and Pinnacle Oil, while most of the firms also received permits for diesel imports.

The move comes despite growing local refining capacity and underscores the continued dependence on imports to bridge supply gaps whenever domestic production falls below demand.

According to industry reports, regulators acted to prevent any disruption in fuel availability as stock levels declined in recent months.

Petrol stock sufficiency reportedly dropped to about 16 days in May, while diesel reserves also recorded a significant decline.

The latest approvals are expected to boost market stability and prevent scarcity as authorities continue efforts to balance local refining with the nation’s energy security needs.

Officials insist the import licences are a precautionary measure designed to guarantee uninterrupted fuel supply while supporting Nigeria’s transition towards greater reliance on locally refined petroleum products.