FG Bans Export of Crude Oil Allocated to Domestic Refineries

The Nigerian government has officially banned the export of crude oil intended for domestic refineries in an effort to curb the diversion of 500,000 barrels per day to the international market.

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has warned that it will deny export permits for crude designated for domestic refining, requiring express approval from its chief executive for any changes to cargo allocation.

NUPRC Chief Executive Officer Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, in a letter dated February 2, 2025, reminded exploration and production companies that diverting crude meant for local refineries violates Nigerian laws.

At a recent meeting with over 50 industry stakeholders, refiners and producers accused each other of failing to meet supply terms. While refiners claimed producers prefer selling crude internationally, producers argued refiners fail to meet commercial and operational terms.

Komolafe cited Section 109 of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, which mandates stable crude supply to domestic refineries to enhance energy security. He also emphasized that regulatory measures, including the Production Curtailment and Domestic Crude Oil Supply Obligation Regulation 2023, have been implemented to ensure compliance.

NUPRC has vowed strict enforcement of these policies and warned against future breaches by oil producers and refiners.