Tinubu Imposes 15% Import Duty on Petrol, Diesel to Protect Local Refineries

President Bola Tinubu has approved a 15% import duty on petrol and diesel to encourage local refining and reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported fuel.

The directive, confirmed in a letter to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the Petroleum Regulatory Authority, takes effect immediately.

FIRS Chairman Zacch Adedeji, who proposed the measure, said it seeks to keep fuel prices stable while helping local refineries compete fairly with importers.

“Our goal is to protect both consumers and local producers and ensure a steady, affordable fuel supply,” Adedeji said.

The new charge may slightly raise petrol prices, but government officials insist it will support Nigeria’s push toward energy self-sufficiency.

Nigeria still imports most of its petrol despite the Dangote Refinery and smaller modular refineries beginning local production.