- Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) denied claims of stopping fuel imports and confirmed ongoing imports of petroleum products
- Spokesperson Olufemi Soneye clarified that NNPCL’s focus on local refineries is subject to economic viability
- NNPCL CEO Mele Kyari’s statement at a petroleum conference was misinterpreted, Soneye
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited denies reports that it has stopped importing petroleum products into the country, confirming that it is still importing petroleum products into Nigeria.
This was disclosed by NNPC spokesperson Olufemi Soneye in a statement on Thursday, November 24.
NNPC debunks claims of stopping fuel imports
According to Soneye, the state-run petroleum company will still import products from overseas when the need arises.
Soneye said that during the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists conference, Mele Kyari, the Group CEO of NNPC, announced that the company has stopped importing fuel and is now sourcing it from domestic refineries.
Soneye acknowledged that Kyari’s statement was accurately quoted in the news report, but clarified that the GCEO, who spoke extemporaneously for several minutes, was misinterpreted.
NNPC explains Kyari’s statement
Soneye said, “The GCEO’s statement, ’Today, NNPC does not import any product; we are only taking from domestic refineries’, should not be construed to imply that NNPC Ltd is obligated to be the sole off-taker of any refinery or that we will no longer import fuel.
“While NNPC prioritises sourcing products from domestic refineries, this is contingent upon economic viability. If local supply is cost-effective, it will be preferred, but the same principle applies to other marketers, who will also evaluate total costs when deciding whether to buy locally or import.”
Soneye clarified that NNPC Ltd's choice between sourcing refined petroleum locally or through imports will be based on economic factors while noting that Kyari has not declared the termination of fuel importation.
NNPC clarifies import license authority
He further said, “It is also essential to note that the authority to grant import licenses resides with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, as mandated by the Petroleum Industry Act.NNPC Ltd does not have control over more than 30 per cent of the market, as stipulated by the PIA, which aims to prevent monopolies.
“The law promotes a free-market system where competition drives efficiency and cost reduction, ensuring that consumers benefit. Domestic refiners must compete on price and value, as patronage cannot be legislated in a deregulated sector.”
He expressed appreciation to the newspaper for its correct reporting on NNPC Ltd’s extensive investments in Compressed Natural Gas infrastructure, which contribute to its overarching objectives of energy security and affordability.
Major management reshuffle at NNPC
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the NNPC announced the appointment of Mr Adedapo Segun as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Mr Udobong Ntia as Executive Vice President (EVP), Upstream, and Mr Isiyaku Abdullahi as EVP, Downstream.
The reshuffle was part of NNPC's ongoing strategy to strengthen governance and improve its competitiveness in the global energy market.