By Samuel Ugonna Benson
Major petroleum marketers have confirmed receiving fresh import licences from the Federal Government, clearing the way for the importation of fuel products during the third quarter of 2026 amid ongoing efforts to maintain nationwide supply stability.
Industry sources said the approvals were issued by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), with several downstream operators already receiving permits covering the July-to-September period. Beneficiaries are reported to include key industry players such as Matrix Energy, NIPCO, Pinnacle Oil, AA Rano, and AYM Shafa, among others.
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The latest approvals come against the backdrop of concerns over fuel availability and stock levels, as authorities seek to balance local refining output with market demand. Industry reports indicate that the licences cover the importation of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, as well as diesel supplies for the coming quarter.
The development is significant because it follows months of debate over the future of fuel imports in Nigeria.
Earlier this year, regulators slowed the issuance of import permits while encouraging greater reliance on domestic refining, particularly output from the Dangote Refinery.
Authorities had argued that imports should only be permitted when local production falls short of national demand, in line with provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act.
The issue has also been at the centre of a legal and commercial dispute involving the Dangote Refinery and downstream marketers. The refinery has previously challenged the continued issuance of import licences, arguing that local refining capacity should take precedence.
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Marketers, however, have maintained that import permits remain essential tools for ensuring energy security, market competition, and uninterrupted fuel availability across the country.
Analysts say the latest approvals reflect the government’s attempt to strike a balance between supporting domestic refining and preventing potential shortages that could disrupt economic activities.
With fuel demand remaining strong across the country, industry stakeholders expect the new permits to provide additional supply buffers while regulators continue to monitor market conditions.
The issuance of the licences is likely to remain a closely watched development as Nigeria navigates the transition toward greater local refining capacity while maintaining stability in the downstream petroleum sector.
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