…Insists NNPC Ltd Didn’t Import Products This Year
…Says Importation a Standard Industry Practice Worldwide
The Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of NNPC Ltd, Mr. Mele Kyari, has strongly refuted claims of substandard petrol in Nigeria, describing such assertions as misinformation and a deliberate attempt to mislead the public.
Speaking at the 60th Nigeria Mining & Geosciences Society (NMGS) Conference in Abuja, Kyari stated that the reports were nothing more than “unfortunate drama” and a “bad marketing practice.”
According to him, Nigeria adheres to strict fuel quality standards, and there is no evidence of subpar Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in circulation.
He emphasized that every country has unique fuel specifications based on regulatory requirements and environmental conditions.
Using Europe as an example, he explained that oxygenates must be added to fuel there to prevent solidification, but in Nigeria, the same additive would turn to water when exposed to air, making it unsuitable.
Kyari reassured the public that regulatory agencies such as the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and the Nigerian Midstream & Downstream Regulatory Agency (NMDPRA) are actively ensuring compliance with quality standards. “These agencies are doing their job, and they have not reported the presence of substandard fuel in the country,” he affirmed.
He also warned against spreading false narratives that could damage the nation’s reputation, stating that legal actions are being taken against individuals spreading misleading information.
Additionally, the NNPC boss dismissed recent claims that the company imported 200 million liters of fuel in February 2025.
He labeled such reports as baseless and untrue, clarifying that no imports were made within the period in question.
Kyari reiterated that fuel importation is a common practice worldwide, even in countries with operational refineries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
On a broader note, Kyari urged members of the Nigerian Mining & Geosciences Society to embrace technological advancements and continuous innovation in the energy, mineral, water, and construction sectors. He highlighted the need for policy reforms and industry-driven solutions to maximize Nigeria’s natural resources and boost revenue generation.
The NMGS conference, themed “Transformation of the Mineral, Energy, Water, and Construction Sectors through Innovation,” provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss industry reforms, policy improvements, and the critical role of geoscience in national development.
