Mirian Gom 
ABUJA, Nigeria – Nigeria’s petrol imports surged by 59.5 per cent in May 2026 despite increasing output from domestic refineries, raising fresh concerns over the sustainability of the country’s fuel self-sufficiency drive.
Latest data released by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority on Thursday showed that average daily imports of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) rose from 3.7 million litres in April to 5.9 million litres in May.
The sharp increase came as crude oil supply to local refineries declined by 5.6 per cent during the same period, dropping from 612,000 barrels per day in April to 578,000 barrels per day in May.
According to the regulator, total petrol supply increased from 44.4 million litres daily in April to 47.4 million litres in May.
Domestic refineries supplied 41.5 million litres per day, while imported petrol accounted for 5.9 million litres.
The NMDPRA noted that although local refineries remained the dominant source of supply, imported fuel continued to play a crucial role in bridging supply gaps.
The report also revealed strong growth in diesel production, with domestic diesel supply rising by 121.2 per cent to 18.8 million litres per day, eliminating the need for imports during the month.
Similarly, aviation fuel supply increased by 38.5 per cent, while cooking gas supply recorded a modest decline.
Industry analysts linked the rise in petrol imports partly to reduced crude feedstock availability for domestic refineries and operational constraints affecting refining activities.
The figures nevertheless show a significant long-term decline in fuel imports compared to historical levels, reflecting the growing contribution of domestic refining capacity to Nigeria’s downstream petroleum market.
About the Author
Oluwatobi Adu 
Otamere Gladness 
Oluwafunbi Bello 