A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to continue issuing fuel import licences and related permits to three oil marketing companies.
The court ruled that the regulator’s refusal to issue the licenses would be inconsistent with provisions of Nigeria’s Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), according to court documents seen on Monday.
Justice Inyang Ekwo said any regulatory action that contravenes the PIA and other applicable laws could render the affected import licenses invalid.
The case was filed in June by Matrix Energy, AA Rano and AYM Shafa, which challenged the NMDPRA’s handling of applications for petrol import licenses and related approvals.
Marketers Challenge Licensing Process
The three companies told the court they had invested more than $20 billion in infrastructure, logistics and retail networks to support their licensed fuel distribution operations across Nigeria.
Their legal challenge comes amid renewed concerns over petrol supply and rising pump prices, which have increased pressure on households and businesses.
The court’s decision could have implications for the role of independent fuel importers in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum market, particularly as marketers seek greater access to imported petrol.
Fuel Prices Add to Cost-of-Living Pressure
The ruling comes as higher petrol prices continue to contribute to Nigeria’s cost-of-living pressures, with fuel costs affecting transportation, food prices and other household expenses.
The issue is also likely to remain politically sensitive ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, as consumers continue to feel the impact of elevated living costs.
The NMDPRA regulates Nigeria’s midstream and downstream petroleum sectors, including the licensing and oversight of petroleum product imports and distribution.
