NNPC Battles Dangote Over Fuel Imports

NNPC Battles Dangote Over Fuel Imports

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has opposed Dangote Refinery’s attempt to stop fuel imports into Nigeria.

In documents filed before the Federal High Court in Lagos, NNPC argued that petrol from the refinery is sold at unstable and expensive prices.

The company warned that restricting imports could hand too much control of the fuel market to one operator.

The dispute followed a suit filed by Dangote Refinery against fuel import licences issued by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority.

The refinery argued that continued import approvals were hurting local refining despite claims that it now meets most of Nigeria’s petrol demand.

Dangote also accused authorities of frustrating its operations through crude supply issues and import policies.

NNPC, however, maintained that Nigeria still needs multiple fuel supply channels to avoid shortages and market disruption. The company told the court that relying on one refinery alone could expose the country to supply risks and price instability.

It also argued that the law allows regulators to continue issuing import licences in the national interest.

Fuel marketers under PETROAN backed NNPC’s position, saying competition remains necessary to protect consumers and prevent price exploitation.

Industry groups warned that monopoly control in the downstream sector could weaken supply flexibility and affect market stability.

The legal battle is now expected to shape the future of fuel pricing and petroleum supply in Nigeria.