Nigeria Receives 164,000MT Imported Fuel Amid Fresh Petrol Import Licences and Supply Debate

Nigeria has recorded the arrival of about 164,000 metric tonnes of imported petroleum products, as new cargo vessels continue to berth across major ports in Lagos, Delta, and Cross River states. The development comes amid renewed fuel import licences issued by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), highlighting the country’s continued reliance on imported refined products.

According to shipping data, the cargoes include 82,000 metric tonnes of Automotive Gas Oil (diesel) and 81,882 metric tonnes of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol). Several vessels have already begun discharge operations, with more expected to follow at key terminals such as Kirikiri Lighter Terminal in Lagos, Koko Port in Warri, and Calabar Port.

In Lagos, multiple diesel-carrying vessels including HUDSON, ALINDA, PINARELLO, and LESTE have either berthed or are expected to arrive within days, collectively contributing tens of thousands of metric tonnes. Petrol shipments are also underway, with vessels like UM BALWA, AFRICAN MARVEL, KINGIS, and SL AREMU scheduled to deliver cargoes across different terminals nationwide.

Industry operators say the inflow could help stabilise fuel availability and ease distribution pressures across depots. However, the development has also reignited debate within the downstream sector, with some stakeholders questioning the continued issuance of import licences as Nigeria expands domestic refining capacity, particularly with the Dangote Petroleum Refinery now in operation.

The NMDPRA has maintained that importation remains part of its strategy to ensure energy security and prevent supply shortages, insisting there is no ban on fuel imports. Meanwhile, tensions persist between supporters of local refining dominance and advocates of a dual-supply system, as Nigeria attempts to balance local production with steady import inflows to meet nationwide demand.

source: punch