NMDPRA Resumes Fuel Import Permits for Six Firms

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has resumed the issuance of fuel import permits, granting six companies the authority to import a total of 600,000 metric tons of petrol. This move represents a significant policy departure from recent norms, as the NMDPRA had previously restricted foreign fuel imports.

The decision follows the removal of Saidu Mohammed, the former CEO of NMDPRA, and the appointment of Rabiu Umar, who had only been in office for four months. The six companies authorized to import include Matrix, AA Rano, AYM Shafa, Nipco, Pinnacle, and Bono, with import volumes ranging from 60,000 to 150,000 metric tons.

This change comes as Nigeria's domestic fuel supply has fallen, with the country importing 60,000 barrels per day in April, a significant drop from previous averages. The NMDPRA's actions are seen as a response to the need for competitive supply security in the Nigerian market.