The government of Nigeria has suspended the issuance of gasoline import licenses for a second consecutive month, signaling a stronger policy push to prioritize domestic refining capacity, Reuters reported.
Data from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority show that no petrol import licences were issued in February, and none had been granted as of early March. The move aligns with provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act, which allows fuel imports only when domestic production is insufficient to meet national demand.
The policy shift is expected to support local refiners, particularly the Dangote Refinery, as authorities seek to strengthen domestic fuel production and reduce the country’s long-standing reliance on imported petrol. Industry groups, including the Crude Oil Refiners Association of Nigeria, have welcomed the decision, noting that limiting import licences could improve market stability and encourage investment in local refining capacity.
Regulators say import permits could still be issued if domestic supply falls short. For now, however, authorities believe local production is sufficient to meet demand, marking a significant step in Nigeria’s drive toward greater energy self-sufficiency.
