In a startling development, Nigeria’s petroleum imports from Malta have surged dramatically, reflecting a 342% increase over the past decade. In 2023, Nigeria imported $2.08 billion worth of petroleum oils obtained from bituminous minerals from Malta, a significant jump from the $47.5 million recorded in 2013. This sharp rise comes in the wake of allegations by Aliko Dangote, chairman of Dangote Industries Limited, concerning illegal activities within the petroleum sector involving blending plants in Malta.

According to data from Trade Map, a global trade statistics database, the value of Nigeria’s petroleum imports from Malta has increased 43 times over the past decade. This dramatic increase has raised eyebrows, especially since Malta has not been known as a major player in the oil market or a significant source of refined petroleum for Nigeria.

The development has been described as worrisome, particularly following Dangote’s allegations. Speaking at the House of Representatives on Monday, Dangote asserted that some personnel from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, along with oil traders and terminals, have established blending plants in Malta.

“Some of the terminals, some of the NNPC people and some traders have opened blending plants somewhere off Malta,” Dangote said. “Even at 650,000 bpm and 700,000 bpm that we are producing was a better quality than what was imported. And I am sure most of you will have problems with your vehicle because of the bad fuel that was imported into the country. I still stand by what I said. Go to a filling station, you can pick it up and check the quality. That is the only way. But all these, one somebody will bring in a ship, bring in fake certificates. Some NNPC people, some traders have opened a blending plant somewhere in Malta. We all know these areas, we know what they are doing.”

In response to these serious allegations, the NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, denied any involvement. “To clarify the allegations regarding the blending plant, I do not own or operate any business directly or by proxy anywhere in the world with the exception of a local mini Agric ventures,” Kyari stated.

The recent surge in imports and the serious allegations have sparked concerns and call for further scrutiny and investigation into the operations and integrity of the petroleum sector. As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on the regulatory bodies to ensure transparency and accountability within the industry.

Credit: Sahara Reporters