CSOs Commend Tinubu Over 15% Fuel Import Tariff Say Policy Will End Influx of Fake Products, Ensure Fuel Availability Nationwide

A coalition of civil society organisations under the aegis of the Coalition of Civil Rights Activists has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving a 15% import duty on refined petroleum products. The group described the policy as “a watershed decision in Nigeria’s history,” capable of ending the dumping of substandard fuels and the recurring fuel scarcity that has affected the nation for decades.

Speaking at a press conference, the Convener, Mr. Agabi Emmanuel, explained that the tariff is not intended as a revenue-generation measure but as a “strategic lever” to protect Nigeria’s emerging domestic refineries from unfair competition by foreign importers.

“This 15% duty will stop the inflow of fake and adulterated products that have damaged engines, polluted our environment, and endangered lives,” Emmanuel stated.

He added that the policy would ensure steady fuel supply, as local refineries such as Dangote, Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna would now operate optimally without fear of being underpriced by smuggled or low-cost imports.

Quoting from a 23-point communiqué titled ‘Full Text of Speech by the Coalition of Civil Rights Activists to Laud Mr. President on the 15% Petroleum Import Tax’, the coalition emphasized that any short-term price adjustments at fuel stations are a reasonable trade-off for achieving long-term energy security and independence.

Emmanuel dismissed claims that the measure promotes monopoly, stressing that existing regulatory frameworks are sufficient to prevent market domination by any single operator.

“This policy represents structural reform, not favoritism,” he said.

The coalition further urged the National Assembly to expedite social compensation initiatives, including targeted tax relief and direct cash transfers, to cushion the impact on vulnerable citizens. It also called on the Presidency to release a transparent implementation schedule and revenue allocation plan within two weeks.

In an appeal to opposition parties, Emmanuel said: “Let us unite with Mr. President to finally lay the subsidy issue to rest. History will remember those who put national progress above partisan politics.”

The coalition also invited international partners such as the World Bank, African Development Bank, and other technical agencies to support the policy through concessional funding and capacity-building initiatives.

Concluding, Emmanuel hailed President Tinubu as “a visionary leader, a unifier, and a strategist who truly cares for the welfare of Nigerians.” He ended with a message of hope:
“Nigerians, be patient, be vigilant, and stay committed. From dependence to dignity—that is the promise of this 15% tariff.”