Petrol imports to Nigeria surge, despite new refinery operations
The Nigerian Ports Authority has revealed that the country imported an astonishing 2.3 billion litres of petrol between September 11 and December 5, 2024. This influx of imported fuel has raised eyebrows, considering the recent launch of operations at the Dangote and Port Harcourt refineries.
Both the Dangote Refinery, which can produce 650,000 barrels daily, and the Port Harcourt Refinery began distributing Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in mid-September and November 2024, respectively. However, imports have continued to flow into the country.
A staggering 52,000 metric tonnes of petrol arrived at Lagos’ Apapa Port, Tin Can Port, and the Calabar Port in Cross River State in the past three days alone. This equates to a whopping 68.74 million litres of fuel.
On December 3, the Binta Saleh vessel brought in 15.86 million litres of petrol, while the Shamal vessel delivered 26.44 million litres the following day via Tin Can Port, managed by Peak Shipping Agency. Additionally, the Watson vessel is expected to arrive at Calabar Port, bringing in another 26.44 million litres.
This constant flow of imported fuel comes amidst the agreement between the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) and Dangote Refinery, allowing direct petrol sales from the refinery. The Nigerian government’s policy shift in October 2024, which permitted marketers to source petrol directly from Dangote, has also changed the dynamics of petrol distribution.
