By RUKAYAT MOISEMHE

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) says the recently approved 15 per cent import tariff on petrol and diesel will strengthen local content and deepen support for Made-in-Nigeria goods.

Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, Director-General of MAN, stated this in a statement on Wednesday in Lagos.

He described the tariff as a strategic and patriotic step aligned with the Nigeria-First agenda and MAN’s consistent push for local content and patronage.

According to him, the decision reassures manufacturers that government remains committed to nurturing indigenous industry and strengthening national capacity.

He said the policy signalled resolve to protect national resources, secure energy supply, and improve Nigerians’ welfare through sustainable industrial development.

Ajayi-Kadir added that the tariff would promote value addition, boost refinery capacity, save foreign exchange, and support long-term industrialisation.

He said it would protect local producers, curb dumping, and provide a stable environment for emerging domestic refineries to grow.

The MAN chief noted that it would speed up operational readiness of refineries, reduce supply interruptions, and stabilise energy for businesses.

He, however, urged transparent and coordinated implementation to ensure the benefits reach manufacturers and consumers and prevent unintended cost pressures.

Ajayi-Kadir called for effective price monitoring to stop excessive mark-ups and discourage anti-competitive practices.

He advised temporary government support for local refiners to safeguard fuel supply, especially during the festive season, and prevent hoarding or speculative pricing.

He further urged that tariff proceeds be reinvested in energy infrastructure, refinery efficiency, and power support for industry, including credit for renewable transition.

Ajayi-Kadir said government should introduce incentives to attract investment in modular and conventional refineries, strengthening capacity and securing energy.

He also called for sustained engagement between refiners, marketers, regulators, and consumers to maintain policy consistency and market stability. (NAN)