Dangote Calls for Ban on Fuel Imports as Marketers Oppose Move

Industrialist Aliko Dangote has urged the Federal Government to add refined petroleum products to the list of banned imports under the ‘Nigeria First’ policy to protect local refining.

Speaking at a recent event, Dangote warned that continued fuel importation is harming local investors and weakening confidence in the energy sector.

However, petroleum marketers are opposing the move. The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) said banning fuel imports would hurt the sector and create supply problems. The group called on the government to avoid making decisions that could destabilize the already fragile fuel supply chain.

The ‘Nigeria First’ policy currently restricts government agencies from importing goods that can be produced locally.