**Petrol Importation Resumes in Nigeria: Why Local Refining May Not Be Enough** A recent shift in petrol pricing has raised eyebrows in Nigeria's downstream oil sector. According to data from the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN), the landing cost of imported petrol has plummeted below the domestic retail price. This development has sparked a renewed interest in importing petrol, despite ongoing efforts to increase local refining capacity. As of March 16, 2026, the imported Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) landed at N1,080.47 per litre, while the domestic gantry price stood at N1,175 per litre, creating a price gap of N94.53 per litre. This means that importing petrol is currently more profitable for marketers than selling domestically produced fuel. This situation highlights the challenges faced by Dangote Refinery, Nigeria's much-anticipated local refining facility, which was expected to drastically reduce reliance on foreign petrol imports. However, the refinery's inability to meet domestic demand has led to a surge in imports. In recent days, over 156 million litres of petrol, equivalent to about 117,000 metric tonnes, have arrived at Nigerian ports. Interestingly, the domestic production of diesel is currently ahead of its imported counterpart. Locally produced Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) sells at N1,500 per litre, while the imported landing cost is N1,546.12 per litre, giving domestic supply an edge in this segment. The recent influx of fuel imports has sparked debate among stakeholders about the country's import policies. While some argue that competition from imports hinders the growth of local refining capacity, others believe that the government should liberalize the market to encourage more private investment in the downstream oil sector. This development serves as a reminder of the complexities of Nigeria's oil and gas industry, where domestic production and imports often interact in a delicate balance. As the country continues to navigate this landscape, the need for a more sustainable and self-sufficient energy policy becomes increasingly pressing.