NMDPRA Commended For Averting Aviation Fuel Crisis

An oil sector advocacy group has commended the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority for stabilising the aviation fuel market, noting that its recent intervention helped ease tensions across the aviation sector and averted potential disruptions to flight operations.

In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by the centre’s Executive Director, Tunde Adeyemi said the regulator’s clarification on fuel availability and pricing came at a critical time, when uncertainty over Jet A1 costs had heightened anxiety among airline operators and other stakeholders.

Adeyemi noted that confirmation of over 70 days’ aviation fuel sufficiency reflects a strong supply position and underscores the resilience of Nigeria’s downstream petroleum framework.

Adeyemi said the regulator’s data-driven disclosure helped counter widespread speculation, including claims of a potential spike in aviation fuel prices that had raised fears of flight disruptions and higher airfares.

“The timely intervention by the Authority provided much-needed clarity and helped calm frayed nerves within the aviation ecosystem. At a time when misinformation could have escalated into a crisis, the regulator chose transparency and facts, which is commendable,” he said.

He added that aviation fuel remains a major cost driver for airlines in Nigeria, making stability in supply and pricing critical to the sector’s sustainability.

According to him, the Authority’s emphasis on the deregulated nature of the Jet A1 market is key to shaping realistic expectations, as pricing is influenced by global oil trends, foreign exchange fluctuations, and logistics costs.

“It is important for stakeholders to understand that aviation fuel pricing is market-driven. What the regulator has done is provide clarity that supports informed decision-making,” he said.

The group also highlighted the growing role of domestic refining in moderating fuel prices, noting that locally refined aviation fuel is being sold slightly below international benchmarks—an indication of improving local capacity.

It urged stakeholders across the aviation fuel value chain to avoid spreading unverified claims capable of distorting market realities or undermining confidence in the sector.

“Responsible engagement is critical. All parties must work together to sustain stability and ensure that recent gains are not reversed by panic or misinformation,” Adeyemi added.