The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has announced the suspension of the planned 15% ad-valorem import duty on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), commonly known as petrol and diesel. This decision aims to stabilize the domestic supply chain and prevent unnecessary price increases in the downstream petroleum sector.
In a statement from the Director of Public Affairs, George Ene-Ita, the NMDPRA assured Nigerians of a steady supply of petroleum products sourced from both local refineries and imports during this period. The Authority cautioned marketers against activities such as hoarding and arbitrary price adjustments, asserting that the current supply situation does not justify any form of scarcity.
Originally approved as part of a new tariff framework to encourage local refining and reduce import dependence, the implementation of the 15% import duty was set to begin on November 21, 2025, following a 30-day transition period. However, the latest suspension indicates a shift in strategy by the Federal Government.
