The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has expressed concern over what it described as a rise in petrol imports into Nigeria, warning that the trend could undermine the growth of the country’s domestic refining industry.
The refinery said increased reliance on imported petroleum products could weaken efforts to achieve greater fuel self-sufficiency and reduce Nigeria’s dependence on foreign supplies.
It stressed the importance of creating a level playing field for local refiners and ensuring that policies support domestic production.
The development comes as Nigeria continues to expand its refining capacity following the commissioning of the Dangote refinery, which was established to reduce the country’s dependence on imported refined petroleum products.
The refinery has been supplying petrol and other products to the domestic market, while the government has also introduced reforms aimed at strengthening the downstream petroleum sector.
Dangote Refinery maintained that a stronger domestic refining industry would help conserve foreign exchange, create jobs and improve energy security.
It therefore called for greater attention to the factors driving petrol imports and urged policymakers to ensure that local refining capacity is fully utilised.
The concerns come amid ongoing debate over competition, pricing and supply in Nigeria’s downstream oil sector, with stakeholders seeking policies that will encourage investment while ensuring reliable and affordable fuel supplies for consumers.