Is Nigeria’s petrol pricing globally benchmarked?

The Nigerian petroleum industry is facing a complex challenge as oil marketers and the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals are embroiled in a legal battle over importation licenses and the quality standards of petroleum products in the country. The issue revolves around the competition for market share, the quality of products being imported, and the role of regulators in enforcing industry standards. To shed light on this contentious issue, Kevin Emmanuel, CEO of Dairy Heals, provided insights during a recent interview on CNBC Africa. According to Emmanuel, the Petroleum Industry Act of 2021 contains provisions in sections 317, 7 to 11 that address the regulation of import licenses for companies importing petroleum products. These provisions aim to promote domestic production and ensure that imported products meet quality standards. However, challenges arise due to the historical practices in the industry, including the involvement of international traders and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). Emmanuel highlighted the importance of quality standards, citing a declaration by ECOWAS members specifying that petroleum products entering the region should have sulfur levels no higher than 50 parts per million. Despite this standard, some products imported into Nigeria exceed 1,500 parts per million, raising concerns about the health risks posed to consumers. The focus then shifted to the Dangote refinery, which is a significant player in the Nigerian petroleum market. The refinery, touted as historic for its capacity and quality of products, has raised questions about potential monopolistic practices. While Dangote's entrance into the market was welcomed as a solution to long-standing issues of scarcity and quality, concerns remain about market competition and pricing. Emmanuel emphasized the need for a comprehensive audit to evaluate the quality of imported petroleum products, especially those sourced from refineries in Russia. He raised issues of substandard and hazardous products being brought into Nigeria, highlighting the risks associated with such practices. Additionally, he pointed out the challenges faced by Nigerian refineries, including high maintenance costs and low production levels. The role of regulators in enforcing industry standards was also scrutinized during the discussion. Emmanuel criticized the regulator's failure to uphold the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act, particularly in relation to import licenses and domestic supply obligations. The lack of enforcement and compliance further complicates the industry landscape and raises questions about the protection of consumers and best practices. As the legal battle between oil marketers and Dangote Petroleum Refinery unfolds, the future of Nigeria's petroleum industry remains uncertain. The outcomes of this dispute could have far-reaching implications for market dynamics, quality standards, and regulatory oversight in the sector. With competing interests at play, finding a balance between market competition, product quality, and regulatory compliance will be crucial for shaping the industry's trajectory. In conclusion, the challenges facing Nigeria's petroleum industry highlight the complex interplay of economic, regulatory, and quality considerations. As stakeholders navigate these issues, the need for transparency, accountability, and sustainable practices becomes increasingly vital to ensure the industry's long-term viability and benefit for all stakeholders.