The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has moved to reassure the public and key stakeholders in the aviation sector that there is no immediate threat of aviation fuel scarcity or an extreme price surge in the country.
According to the regulatory agency, Nigeria currently has a combined aviation fuel stock sufficiency of 74 days, a level it described as adequate to guarantee stability in supply across the country. This stock is made up of inland reserves covering about 12 days and refinery-held stock estimated at 62 days, indicating a relatively steady supply situation.
The agency emphasized that the current availability suggests there is no basis for panic or concerns about shortages in the near term. It further noted that efforts are ongoing to ensure consistent distribution and prevent any form of disruption in the supply chain.
Aviation fuel, commonly known as Jet A1, was also highlighted as a deregulated product, meaning its pricing is determined by market forces rather than fixed government control. The regulator explained that this structure allows prices to fluctuate based on global oil trends, logistics, and domestic supply conditions.
It added that current pricing data shows the ex-depot rate from a major local refinery stands at ₦1,879 per litre, which is slightly below international benchmark estimates. This, according to the agency, reflects the growing role of domestic refining in moderating fuel costs compared to global market levels.
A nationwide price monitoring exercise further revealed that retail aviation fuel prices currently range between approximately ₦1,960 and ₦2,800 per litre, depending on location, distribution costs, and other logistical factors. The authority dismissed circulating claims that prices had surged to as high as ₦3,300 per litre, describing such figures as inaccurate and not reflective of current market realities.
The regulator urged stakeholders and the public to disregard speculative reports capable of creating unnecessary tension in the aviation industry. It assured that it would continue to closely monitor supply and pricing trends to prevent exploitation, hoarding, or any form of market manipulation.
In addition, the agency reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining stability in the downstream petroleum sector and ensuring uninterrupted supply of aviation fuel across the country. It stressed that all relevant regulatory tools would be deployed where necessary to safeguard energy security and protect consumers.
The clarification comes amid ongoing concerns within the aviation industry over rising operational costs linked to Jet A1 prices. Airline operators have repeatedly expressed worries that escalating fuel expenses could affect flight operations, ticket prices, and overall sustainability of the sector.
While industry stakeholders continue to debate the impact of pricing trends, regulators maintain that current supply levels remain sufficient and that the market is functioning within expected global and domestic parameters.
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