The Conference of Registered Voters in Nigeria (CRVN) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving a 15 per cent import duty on petrol and diesel, describing the move as a decisive step toward strengthening Nigeria’s domestic refining industry, protecting jobs, and stimulating economic growth.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the group’s National President, Dr Ebikeme Edesiri, praised President Tinubu for what he termed a courageous and strategic intervention that would reposition the nation’s petroleum sector for sustainability. He said the policy aligns with the administration’s long-term vision of achieving energy independence, promoting local investment, and reducing Nigeria’s dependency on imported fuel.

“President Tinubu has once again shown that he is a reform-minded leader who understands what it takes to build a stable economy. This import duty is not punitive—it is protective. It shields our local refineries from unfair competition, supports Nigerian workers, and helps to secure the future of our oil and gas industry,” the statement read.

Dr Edesiri explained that the import duty would help to level the playing field for local refineries, encourage private sector participation, and ensure that Nigeria derives greater value from its natural resources. He added that the measure would also support the Federal Government’s efforts to improve transparency, attract investment, and create employment opportunities across the energy value chain.

According to the CRVN, the policy has multiple economic benefits: it will promote healthy competition, strengthen the naira by reducing foreign exchange demand for fuel imports, and enhance government revenue for infrastructural development.

“This policy is a win-win for government, industry, and the people. By curbing the influx of cheap imported fuel, we will be protecting the huge investments made in domestic refining. It is a practical step toward energy independence and national pride,” the statement added.

The group further noted that the move complements President Tinubu’s broader economic reform agenda, which includes the removal of fuel subsidies, exchange rate unification, and diversification of non-oil revenue sources. Dr Edesiri described these reforms as “bold but necessary decisions” required to build a self-reliant and resilient economy.

“Each of these reforms reflects a consistent and visionary economic direction. President Tinubu is not playing politics with policy. He is making tough but necessary decisions that will set Nigeria on the path of sustainable growth,” he stated.
While commending the government for its foresight, the CRVN urged authorities to ensure that revenues generated from the new import duty are managed transparently and channelled into critical sectors such as infrastructure, power, and healthcare.

The group also appealed to Nigerians to remain patient and supportive of ongoing reforms, noting that the benefits—particularly in job creation, industrial capacity, and economic stability—would become more evident over time.

“This 15 per cent petroleum import duty is an act of national renewal. It will protect Nigerian refineries, stimulate growth, and secure jobs. We stand solidly behind the President and urge him to sustain these noble reforms that bring development closer to the common man,” Dr Edesiri said.

The CRVN reaffirmed its confidence in President Tinubu’s leadership, describing him as “a man of courage, conviction, and vision” who is laying the foundation for a more self-sufficient and prosperous Nigeria.