MURIC Hails FG for Suspending Petrol Imports, Urges 100% Crude Oil Supply to Local Refineries

MURIC Hails FG for Suspending Fuel Importation, Urges Full Crude Supply to Local Refineries

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has commended the Federal Government of Nigeria for suspending the importation of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), popularly known as petrol, into the country, describing the move as a bold step towards strengthening local refining capacity and achieving energy independence.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Executive Director of the group, Ishaq Akintola, praised the government for what he described as a strategic decision that could help reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products.

According to MURIC, the suspension of petrol imports follows a noticeable boost in local refining activities, particularly with the operational improvements recorded in domestic refineries. The group said the development signals a positive shift in Nigeria’s petroleum sector after decades of reliance on foreign refined products despite being a major crude oil producer.

Akintola noted that the policy could help conserve foreign exchange, strengthen the naira, and create more jobs within the country’s oil and gas sector. He added that the decision aligns with long-standing calls by stakeholders for the revitalisation of Nigeria’s local refining industry.

The Islamic human rights group, however, urged the Federal Government to go further by ensuring that 100 percent of Nigeria’s crude oil production is supplied to local refineries before any export commitments are considered.

According to the statement, prioritising local refineries with crude supply would guarantee steady production of refined products, stabilize domestic fuel availability, and reduce the recurring fuel scarcity experienced across the country.

MURIC also called for strict monitoring and transparency in the implementation of the policy to ensure that local refineries operate efficiently and that the benefits of the decision reach ordinary Nigerians.

The group expressed optimism that if properly implemented, the suspension of fuel imports and prioritisation of local refining could mark a turning point in Nigeria’s quest for self-sufficiency in petroleum products.

Nigeria, Africa’s largest crude oil producer, has historically relied heavily on imported refined petroleum products due to the long-standing challenges faced by its state-owned refineries. However, recent developments in the sector have raised hopes that increased local refining capacity may significantly reduce the country’s dependence on imports.

MURIC Hails FG for Suspending Fuel Importation, Urges Full Crude Supply to Local Refineries