Nigerian Tank Farm Owners Back Dangote Refinery, Demand Halt to Fuel Imports

In a significant development for Nigeria's energy sector, the Jetties and Petroleum Tank Farm Owners of Nigeria (JETFON) has thrown its weight behind the Dangote Refinery, asserting that the nation possesses the capability to entirely self-sufficiently produce its fuel requirements. This stance directly challenges the prevailing import-dependent model and signals a strong push towards prioritizing local refining capacity.

JETFON has explicitly distanced itself from the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), particularly concerning the recent issuance of fresh petrol import licenses. While DAPPMAN has voiced concerns that import restrictions could foster monopolies and jeopardize energy security, JETFON maintains a contrary view. They argue that the burgeoning number of refineries within Nigeria, spearheaded by the colossal Dangote Refinery, can adequately satisfy domestic demand, rendering further imports economically counterproductive.

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Relying on foreign refined products leaves the local economy vulnerable to external supply chain shocks, international logistics disruptions, and continuous foreign exchange pressures that weaken the Naira.

The association's communique, signed by Executive Secretary Mr. Olayiwola Temitope, calls for an immediate halt to fuel importation and the cancellation of all active import licenses. JETFON contends that the continuous granting of these permits undermines local production and devalues substantial investments like the Dangote Refinery. They posit that absolute reliance on local refining capacity is the definitive pathway to achieving true economic independence and robust energy security for Nigeria.

JETFON's argument is rooted in the belief that dependence on foreign refined products exposes the Nigerian economy to volatile external supply chain disruptions and persistent foreign exchange pressures that weaken the Naira. By contrast, prioritizing local refineries, they argue, will cultivate a self-sustaining and secure domestic fuel supply ecosystem. Citing recent data from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), JETFON points to a dynamic shift in supply-and-demand metrics, suggesting that local capacity is not only sufficient but growing, further bolstering their case for an import-free future.

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By prioritising local refineries, Nigeria can build a self-sustaining and secure domestic fuel supply ecosystem.