The Nigerian government has approved new petrol import licences for six major oil marketers in a move that signals a shift in its downstream petroleum policy.

The licences were issued through the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, allowing the companies to collectively import about 720,000 metric tonnes of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) into the country.

The benefiting firms include NIPCO, AA Rano, Matrix, Shafa, Pinnacle, and Bono. Under the allocation, NIPCO is expected to bring in 120,000 metric tonnes, AA Rano and Matrix 150,000 metric tonnes each, Shafa and Pinnacle 120,000 metric tonnes each, while Bono will import 60,000 metric tonnes.

The decision marks a notable adjustment in Nigeria’s fuel supply strategy, which had recently placed stronger emphasis on domestic refining capacity, particularly with operations from the Dangote Refinery. Industry data had suggested that the refinery was supplying a significant share of national fuel demand.

Although regulators have not publicly explained the rationale behind the renewed import approvals, the development has triggered renewed debate among energy sector stakeholders over the balance between local refining and fuel imports.

The policy shift comes shortly after a leadership change at the regulatory agency, following the appointment of a new chief executive for the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority.

The latest approvals are expected to influence fuel supply dynamics in the coming months as Nigeria continues to manage domestic production capacity alongside import dependence.