The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has refuted allegations that it imported over 200 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in February 2025.
In a statement issued by its Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, the company dismissed the claim as “false, baseless, and a reckless misrepresentation of facts.”
“NNPC Limited has not imported a single litre of PMS in 2025. We do not control the import activities of private marketers, nor do we issue import licenses,” Soneye clarified.
NNPCL Reserves the Right to Import If Necessary
While denying any petrol importation this year, NNPCL emphasized that it retains the right to do so if needed to ensure energy security.
“As Nigeria’s foremost energy company, we have a duty to ensure energy security. Should any supply shortages arise, NNPC Limited retains the full right and responsibility to step in and import to stabilize the market,” the statement read.
Legal Action Against False Reports
NNPCL also warned against the spread of misinformation, stating that false reports distort market realities and mislead stakeholders.
“Misinformation of this magnitude does a grave disservice to the public. NNPC Limited will not tolerate the spread of false and malicious reports aimed at undermining its reputation. We will take all necessary legal measures against those responsible for fabricating and disseminating such falsehoods,” Soneye stated.
Public Concern Over Petrol Imports
The controversy arose after reports suggested that NNPCL had imported 159,000 metric tons of petrol (over 200 million litres) between February 1 and February 12, 2025. This sparked outrage, as many Nigerians questioned why petrol was still being imported despite ongoing efforts to refurbish state-owned refineries.
NNPCL reiterated its commitment to transparency and urged media organizations to verify facts before publication.
