Nigeria’s petrol imports recorded a sharp increase in May 2026, rising by 59.5% compared to the previous month despite continued growth in domestic refining capacity.
The latest data released by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) showed that oil marketers increased import volumes to supplement local supply, even as domestic refineries remained the primary source of petrol in the country.
What the data is saying
According to the NMDPRA’s Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Statistics, average daily imports of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, rose to 5.9 million litres per day in May 2026 from 3.7 million litres per day recorded in April.
The increase represents a 59.5% month-on-month surge in import volumes and suggests that marketers continued to rely on foreign supplies to meet domestic demand and maintain product availability across the country.
Despite the rise in imports, domestic refineries remained the dominant source of petrol supply during the month, with the Dangote Refinery continuing to play a leading role in local production.
Why imports are still rising
The increase in petrol imports highlights the continued balancing act within Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector.
While domestic refining capacity has expanded significantly, particularly following the ramp-up of operations at the Dangote Refinery, marketers may still be importing fuel to address supply gaps, manage distribution requirements, and ensure product availability across different regions.
Import volumes can also fluctuate due to logistics considerations, inventory management strategies, regional demand patterns, and pricing dynamics within the domestic market.
Implications for the downstream sector
The rebound in imports indicates that Nigeria’s transition towards self-sufficiency in refined petroleum products remains a work in progress.
Although domestic refining output has reduced the country’s dependence on imported fuel compared to previous years, imports continue to serve as an important supplementary source of supply.
The development also underscores the need for sustained growth in local refining capacity, improved distribution infrastructure, and efficient market operations to fully meet domestic fuel demand through local production.
Outlook
With domestic refineries continuing to increase output and additional refining projects expected to come on stream, Nigeria’s long-term reliance on petrol imports is expected to decline.
However, the May figures suggest that imports will likely remain part of the country’s fuel supply mix in the near term as the downstream market adjusts to evolving production, distribution, and consumption patterns.
