Fuel Crisis Deepens: Civil Society Condemns Importation as Nigerians Struggle with Transportation Costs
As Nigerians continue to grapple with rising fuel prices and scarcity, a coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) under the Nigerian Coalition of Civil Society Organizations (NICOCSO) has criticized the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited’s (NNPCL) importation of 1.6 billion liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
Spokesperson Tabuko Kennedy condemned the move during a press briefing in Abuja, describing it as a “calculated attempt to weaken local refining capabilities and strain the economy.” 
The group has demanded government accountability, threatening nationwide protests if concerns are not addressed.
Meanwhile, the Dangote Petroleum Refinery has commenced exporting refined petroleum to West African nations, marking a significant shift in regional fuel distribution.
A Bloomberg report highlighted a shipment of 300,000 barrels delivered near Togo, underscoring the refinery’s potential to reshape the market.
Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, Ghana’s National Petroleum Authority Chairman, emphasized that sourcing fuel from Nigeria instead of Europe could save Ghana $400 million monthly while lowering freight costs.
Additionally, NNPCL has launched its new crude oil grade, the Utapate blend, with European refiners among the first buyers.
Olufemi Soneye, NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, announced this at the Argus European Crude Conference, noting that the milestone enhances Nigeria’s global crude market presence.
However, back home, citizens continue to face severe transportation challenges, with rising costs making daily commutes increasingly unaffordable. The call for sustainable fuel solutions remains urgent as Nigerians adapt to mounting economic hardships.
