NMDPRA Unveils Six Approved Petrol Marketers to Import Fuel, Rivaling Dangote Refinery
In a significant development for Nigeria's energy sector, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has officially licensed six fuel marketers to import petrol into the country. This announcement follows earlier reports of the government suspending petrol imports as Dangote Refinery supplied an overwhelming 92% of Nigeria's fuel consumption in February 2026.
List of Approved Importers and Market Impact
The NMDPRA has named Pinnacle, AYM Shafa, Matrix, Rano, and NIPCO as the firms authorized to import petrol. This strategic move is designed to support stability in the downstream market by introducing alternative supply chains. Each of these marketers is expected to import approximately 30,000 metric tonnes of petrol, which experts believe will improve distribution flexibility and help moderate pricing during periods of global crude oil volatility.
According to industry data, local refining volumes have recently outweighed imports, indicating a reduced dependence on foreign supply. The 650,000 barrels-per-day capacity Dangote Refinery currently accounts for the majority of domestic fuel supply. However, the introduction of additional importers is seen as a measure to maintain supply continuity as Nigeria progresses toward greater domestic refining capacity.
Dangote Refinery's Dominance and Threats
Dangote Refinery's supply of 92% of Nigeria's fuel has significantly impacted local supply dynamics. Amid this dominance, there have been reports that the refinery is considering exporting all its refined products, including petrol, diesel, and aviation fuel, in response to the continued issuance of import licences. This potential move could tighten domestic supply and revive fears of fuel scarcity across the country.
Financial analyst Osas Igho commented on the NMDPRA's decision, stating, "The move by NMDPRA is commendable. It will cushion the rising petrol prices nationwide, especially as the Middle East tensions have continued to create volatility in the market."
Price Dynamics and Future Outlook
Recent reports indicate that the landing cost of petrol has fallen below Dangote Refinery's price by about N94 per litre. The Major Energy Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN) noted in its bulletin that the landing cost of PMS is far cheaper than locally refined products, which stood at N1,285 per litre at the Dangote Refinery.
Experts suggest that a combination of local production and controlled imports could help moderate pricing and support market stability. This development marks a pivotal shift in Nigeria's fuel supply strategy, aiming to balance domestic refining with strategic imports to ensure energy security and economic resilience.
