The Nigerian Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (NCCSO) has taken a swipe at the Federal Government over its decision to delay the implementation of the 15% import duty on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and Diesel, insisting the move tilts the market in favour of foreign fuel importers and poses a major threat to Nigeria’s refining ambitions.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had approved the deferment to the first quarter of 2026 on November 7, 2025 — a decision the coalition described as a setback for ongoing efforts to strengthen domestic refining capacity and achieve energy self-sufficiency.
In a statement signed by its National Spokesperson, Comrade Mustapha Ahmed, NCCSO argued that the government’s justification of “technical alignment” conceals what it believes to be mounting pressure from international fuel traders and their Nigerian collaborators.
The group warned that the deferment would open the gates for foreign fuel products to “flood the market,” potentially weakening local refineries, including the Dangote Refinery and several modular plants gearing up for full operations.
According to Ahmed:“The deferment of this levy is a temporary victory for importers but a major setback for Nigeria’s refining future. It contradicts the spirit of the Renewed Hope Agenda and discourages investors who have committed billions to Nigeria’s energy sector.”
NCCSO praised the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), led by Dr. Zacch Adedeji, for earlier proposing the levy, saying it was crafted to promote local refining, stabilize market prices, and create a level regulatory environment for domestic producers.
The coalition urged President Tinubu to resist further pressure from external interests and ensure that the deferment does not extend beyond the first quarter of 2026. It also called for tighter monitoring of fuel import activities during the period to prevent market disruptions and anti-competitive behaviour.
“The government must protect Nigeria’s refining independence and not allow international interests to dictate domestic economic policy,” the coalition stated.
Leaked memo from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, advising the deferment of the 15% import duty on PMS and Diesel.
