NNPC GCEO Rejects Claims of Substandard Fuel Quality

Speaking at a fireside chat during the 60th Nigeria Mining & Geosciences Society (NMGS) Conference in Abuja, Mr. Kyari dismissed the circulating narratives of substandard fuel as “unfortunate drama” and “bad marketing antics.”

“The talk around fuel quality is unfortunate and a very bad marketing practice. It’s all drama and entertainment,” Kyari asserted, emphasizing that both NNPC Ltd and Nigeria maintain fuel quality that complies with international standards. He noted that Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) quality specifications differ from one country to another. Citing the European practice of adding oxygenate to prevent tank solidification—a measure that would be counterproductive in Nigeria where the additive behaves differently—Kyari highlighted that regulatory frameworks are tailored to meet local requirements.

He further reiterated that Nigeria’s regulatory agencies, including the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and the Nigerian Midstream & Downstream Regulatory Agency (NMDPRA), are diligently ensuring that all imported products meet established quality standards. “I believe these regulatory agencies are doing their job. They have not come back to tell anyone that we have substandard products in the country,” he maintained.

Addressing circulating rumors, Kyari categorically refuted reports that NNPC had imported 200 million litres of fuel in February, stating, “These are just lies, because we didn’t even import products within that window that the report was published.” He stressed that importation is a standard practice in the industry—a process routinely undertaken by countries including the United States—and that such allegations were baseless and misleading.

Kyari concluded his remarks by urging conference attendees to embrace emerging technologies and continuous improvement initiatives, underlining the role of innovation in maximizing Nigeria’s natural resources and boosting national revenue.