The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has ceased importing refined petroleum products, opting instead to source fuel from the Dangote Refinery and other local refineries, announced NNPC Group CEO Mele Kyari on Monday. Speaking at the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE) conference in Lagos, Kyari confirmed that the NNPC is now sourcing all fuel supplies domestically as part of Nigeria’s strategic shift to enhance energy security.

“Today, NNPC does not import any product; we are now taking only from domestic refineries,” Kyari said, adding that the move underscores the company’s commitment to reducing dependence on imported fuel and strengthening Nigeria’s energy independence.

The shift aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision for a self-sufficient energy sector. In a recent statement, Tinubu highlighted that the introduction of compressed natural gas (CNG) could save Nigeria over ₦2 trillion monthly by reducing the need for fuel imports.

NNPC’s move follows allegations that the company was stalling operations at the Dangote Refinery, claims which Kyari firmly denied. “We are proud part-owners of Dangote Refinery. Supplying crude to domestic refineries is not only beneficial to NNPC but is also an informed business decision,” he clarified.

The energy transition also addresses pricing challenges for Nigerian crude. Kyari noted that Nigerian crude, often called “Lamborghini crude” for its high quality, is pricey compared to other blends. He explained that blending high-quality Nigerian crude with cheaper oils has been standard practice among international buyers. Domestically, however, providing affordable fuel remains a top priority, and the government is working closely with NNPC to balance local costs for consumers.

Kyari further addressed the broader implications for Nigeria’s energy security, emphasizing that about 50% of Nigerians lack reliable access to electricity, while 70% lack clean fuel access. The NNPC, he added, is committed to addressing these gaps by enhancing domestic energy supply chains and investing in cleaner fuel options.

The NNPC’s transition to domestic sourcing represents a significant shift in Nigeria’s energy policy. By eliminating reliance on imports and focusing on local refineries, the government aims to curb inflation and reduce foreign exchange pressures on the naira, a move Kyari described as a “transformative step” for Nigeria’s economy.