Petrol Imports Jump 80% as Nigeria Faces Refinery Shutdowns

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Nigeria’s dependence on imported petrol rose sharply toward the end of 2025 as fresh data indicated a significant jump in fuel supply across the country.

Statistics released by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) showed that the availability of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), widely known as petrol, climbed noticeably in November compared with the previous month.

Rising Supply Levels

Figures from the regulator indicate that the daily supply of petrol increased to about 23.52 million litres in November, representing a strong improvement when compared with the 17.08 million litres recorded in October.

The increase reflects a deliberate effort by authorities to boost fuel availability nationwide.

According to the NMDPRA, the country received an average daily petrol volume of roughly 71.5 million litres during the month under review.

Sharp Increase in Imports

A closer look at the data reveals that petrol imports played a major role in driving the increase.

Import volumes grew dramatically, rising by over 80 percent within a month.

The inflow of imported petrol moved from roughly 28.9 million litres per day in October to about 52.1 million litres per day in November, highlighting Nigeria’s continued reliance on external supply to meet domestic demand.

Factors Behind the Import Surge

Regulators explained that the rise in supply was partly linked to earlier shortfalls recorded in September and October, when deliveries fell below the level required to satisfy national consumption.

To correct this imbalance, import activities were expanded in November in order to rebuild national reserves ahead of the high-demand festive season.

Another factor that contributed to the sudden increase was the delayed arrival of several petrol shipments originally scheduled for October.

About twelve fuel vessels meant for earlier discharge were eventually offloaded in November, pushing the month’s supply numbers significantly higher.

NNPC Steps In as Supplier of Last Resort

The report also indicated that NNPC Limited increased its involvement in importing petrol during the period.

Acting in its role as the country’s supplier of last resort, the state oil company boosted supply volumes to prevent potential shortages and ensure stable distribution across the country.

This intervention was seen as part of wider efforts to maintain sufficient fuel reserves nationwide.

Consumption and National Stock Levels

Despite the increase in supply, the country’s petrol consumption remains substantial.

According to the regulatory data, Nigeria’s average daily petrol consumption stood at about 52.9 million litres in November.

National fuel reserves at the time were estimated to be sufficient for roughly 16.65 days, indicating the need for continued supply management.

Refineries Still Idle

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s domestic refining capacity continues to face challenges.

All four refineries owned by NNPC Limited remain inactive, with no clear timeline announced for when operations will resume.

Although rehabilitation work is ongoing, the facilities are yet to return to full production.

Plans for Technical Partnerships

NNPC Group Chief Executive Officer Bayo Ojulari recently disclosed that discussions are underway with potential technical partners who could help jointly manage and operate the refineries.

He noted that even after current repairs are completed, additional upgrades will be required for the facilities to produce fuel that meets modern international quality standards.

According to him, the refineries in their present form would produce fuel that falls below the specifications achieved by newer facilities such as the Dangote Refinery.

Commentary and Analysis

Nigeria’s heavy reliance on imported petrol continues to raise questions about the country’s long-term energy strategy.

Despite being one of Africa’s largest crude oil producers, limited domestic refining capacity has forced the country to depend on foreign suppliers for refined petroleum products.

The shutdown of state-owned refineries further intensifies this reliance, making import expansion necessary to avoid shortages.

However, sustained import dependence can place pressure on foreign exchange reserves and public finances.

Energy analysts therefore believe that reviving domestic refining infrastructure and encouraging private sector participation will be crucial for achieving fuel supply stability and reducing import costs in the future.