Petrol Importation Falls by 12.6%, Diesel Importation Surges Amid Rising Production

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has reported a 12.6% year-on-year decline in petrol distribution in Nigeria, with the volume dropping from 23.24 billion liters in 2022 to 20.29 billion liters in 2023.

This decrease, accompanied by a 16.9% drop in petrol truck outs, may give some Nigerians hope that fuel-related challenges could ease, though concerns remain about the government’s transparency in addressing the issue.

Many citizens have expressed frustrations over fuel price hikes, which they believe are driven by greed and self-interest.

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 In contrast, diesel importation surged by 23.66%, with 4.94 billion liters imported in 2023 compared to 3.99 billion liters the previous year.

The report also showed a significant 56% increase in household kerosene (HHK) production, rising to 69.7 million liters from 44.68 million liters in 2022.

These gains in the production and distribution of diesel and HHK bring some optimism that broader improvements in the petroleum sector could eventually benefit everyday Nigerians.

 However, local petrol production has remained inactive since 2018, raising concerns about the nation’s continued dependence on imports for its fuel needs.

While the NBS report highlights mixed progress, the hope for better fuel management and lower prices remains fragile, as many citizens remain skeptical of the government’s commitment to real change.