Nigeria has recorded a significant surge in petrol shipments following the Federal Government’s decision to delay the implementation of a 15% import duty on petrol and diesel. Shipping data from the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) shows that between Friday, November 21, and Tuesday, November 25, 2025, about 149,500 metric tonnes — equivalent to 194.35 million litres — of Premium Motor Spirit arrived or are expected to arrive in the country.
The postponed import duty had been approved in October as part of a “market-responsive import tariff framework” by President Bola Tinubu, aimed at supporting domestic refineries and stabilising the downstream fuel market. The duty, calculated on the cost, insurance, and freight value of imported fuel, was initially expected to push pump prices higher. However, the government deferred its implementation to the first quarter of 2026, giving room for more imports.
Tincan Island Port led the latest fuel arrivals, receiving a total of 58,500 metric tonnes over two days. Calabar Port handled 46,000 metric tonnes, while Warri Port processed 45,000 metric tonnes. Specific deliveries included 28,000 metric tonnes at Kirikiri Lighter Terminal (KLT) Phase 3A on Friday and 20,500 metric tonnes on Saturday, with an additional 10,000 metric tonnes discharged at KLT Phase 2.
Further shipments are expected this week, with Calabar Port receiving 16,000 metric tonnes on Monday via Dozzy Oil and Gas Limited and 30,000 metric tonnes on Tuesday from North West Petroleum and Gas Limited. Warri Port is also scheduled to handle another 45,000 metric tonnes through Rainoil and Matric Energy Nigeria Limited. The NPA’s Shipping Position bulletin tracks these movements daily, providing real-time data across major ports including Lagos, Onne, Rivers, Calabar, and Delta.
The suspension of the import duty has also influenced the downstream market. Fuel marketers, who had signaled potential reductions in importation due to competition from Dangote Petroleum Refinery — which recently cut its petrol gantry price by ₦49 per litre — are now accelerating new shipments. With millions of litres of petrol arriving in the coming days, consumers may see temporary stability in supply and pricing until the duty is eventually implemented next year.
source: Business day