The debate over fuel quality in Nigeria has intensified following a viral video showing what appeared to be comprising between petrol from MRS filling station and that of NNPCL, While this sparked public outcry, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has strongly denied claims that substandard fuel is being sold in the country, insisting that all petroleum products meet the required industry standards.
At the heart of this conversation is the difference between imported fuel and locally refined fuel, such as that from the Dangote Refinery. With many Nigerians prioritising affordability, the big question remains: Should we go for cheaper, imported fuel, or insist on premium quality fuel from local refineries? But as it stands now the cheapest source of PMS comes from local Refinery, Dangote refinery.
Viral Video and MRS Fuel Controversy
The controversy began when a video surfaced online showing fuel from an MRS station turning and that of NNPC station in two different labeled containers poured into two different newly bought generators of the same brand and capacity l, the one using fuel from MRS lasted longer and the fuel was cleaner while the one using fuel from NNPCL lasted least and the fuel was dark. Many Nigerians took this as further proof the fuel gotten from Dangote refinery is superior to that gotten from NNPCL, raising concerns about vehicle damage and increased pollution.
In response, NNPC said the video was an advert for Dangote refinery and was done to discredit their efforts in the sector.
NNPCL: “No Bad Fuel in Nigeria”
Meanwhile, NNPCL’s Group CEO, Mele Kyari, has described the entire fuel quality debate as “drama” and bad marketing tactics.
Kyari explained that fuel standards vary across countries. For example, in Europe, a chemical called oxygenate is added to prevent fuel from solidifying. However, in Nigeria, that same additive would turn into water when exposed to air, creating unnecessary panic.
Kyari further assured Nigerians that government agencies like the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and the Nigerian Midstream & Downstream Regulatory Agency (NMDPRA) closely monitor fuel quality and have not reported any substandard petrol in the market.
“We have regulatory agencies doing their jobs, and they have not told anyone that there is bad fuel in circulation,” Kyari said.
Imported Fuel vs. Dangote Refinery Fuel
One of the biggest issues in Nigeria’s fuel sector is the difference between imported fuel and locally refined fuel.
- Imported Fuel: Historically, much of Nigeria’s petrol supply has been imported, but imported fuel has been linked to quality concerns, with reports of contamination and high sulphur content. These issues have led to vehicle damage and increased maintenance costs for motorists.
- Dangote Refinery Fuel: With the Dangote Refinery now operational, locally refined fuel offers a higher quality alternative. Dangote’s petrol meets international standards and is expected to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on low-quality imported fuel.
Experts believe that with more local refining capacity, Nigeria can phase out low-quality imported fuel and ensure better quality control, leading to fewer cases of fuel contamination.
NNPCL: “We Didn’t Import Any Fuel in 2025”
Adding to the ongoing controversy, there have been rumours that NNPCL imported 200 million litres of petrol in February 2025. Some reports suggested that this was responsible for the alleged fuel contamination.
However, Kyari completely denied these claims, saying NNPCL has not imported any fuel this year.
“These are just lies,” he said. “We have only used local supplies. And even if we ever have to import, it is not a crime. Even big oil-producing countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE sometimes import fuel when necessary.”
How Can We Get Both Quality and Affordable Fuel?
The reality is, Nigerians want fuel that is both high-quality and affordable. However, achieving this balance requires:
- Stronger Regulations: Government agencies like NMDPRA and SON must enforce stricter monitoring of fuel imports and local refining.
- Investment in Local Refineries: With the Dangote Refinery now producing fuel, Nigeria’s reliance on imports should reduce, leading to better quality control and stable prices.
- Transparency in Fuel Supply: Oil companies and regulators should communicate openly with the public to avoid panic caused by viral misinformation.
At the end of the day, Nigerians must decide should we continue using cheaper imported fuel, even with quality concerns, or should we push for higher-quality, locally refined fuel from places like Dangote Refinery?
