NMDPRA sets new conditions for petrol import licences

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has introduced new conditions for importing petrol, based on merit-based criteria and transparent determination of supply shortfalls. NMDPRA Chief Executive, Rabiu Umar, announced this during the 2026 OTL Africa Downstream Energy Week in Lagos, emphasizing the need for transparency and fair competition in the downstream petroleum market.

Umar reported that domestic refineries now supply about 75% of the country's petrol, a significant increase from a year ago when imports made up more than half of the country's fuel supply. The move towards local refining has bolstered Nigeria's energy security by reducing dependency on imported petroleum products. Umar warned against complacency, pointing out that the majority of local supply still comes from one major refinery, and called for support of smaller refineries, revival of government-owned refineries, and maintaining access to imports when domestic production falls short.

The authority will continue to facilitate import channels and ensure fair market competition, while also reviewing its licensing framework to streamline processes and reduce delays.