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15% Fuel Duty Sparks Debate, Tinubu Defends Local Refineries

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(DDM) – The Federal Government’s approval of a 15 per cent import duty on petrol and diesel has ignited discussions among industry stakeholders and investors.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that Mr. Mike Osatuyi, former National Operations Controller of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), praised the move as a bold step to protect domestic refineries.

Osatuyi argued that the levy would encourage local refining of petroleum products and reduce Nigeria’s over-reliance on imported fuels.

He stated, “This policy is a clear signal to investors that the government is committed to strengthening local refining capacity.”

Osatuyi emphasized that the duty would help stabilize fuel supply in the lon term while boosting the profitability of Nigerian refineries.

The former IPMAN official said the 15 per cent duty would create a level playing field between imported fuels and products from local refineries.

He further explained that investors, both local and foreign, are likely to view this policy as an incentive to inject capital into Nigeria’s refining sector.

Osatuyi warned, however, that the implementation must be consistent and transparent to avoid loopholes that could undermine local production.

He added that smuggling and illegal importation could threaten the intended impact if enforcement is weak.

Background

Nigeria currently relies heavily on imported petrol and diesel despite having several refineries, many of which operate below capacity due to infrastructure deficits and maintenance challenges.

Over the past decade, successive governments have struggled to make local refineries profitable, leaving the country vulnerable to global oil price fluctuations.

The 15 per cent import duty represents a strategic shift in energy policy, aiming to encourage domestic refining while discouraging excessive importation of petroleum products.

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Economists note that while the policy could raise pump prices slightly in the short term, it may stabilize fuel availability and prices over time.

Investors are closely watching government measures to revamp local refineries, as reliable operations could attract private partnerships and foreign investment.

Critics argue that without substantial investment in refinery infrastructure and improved governance, import duties alone may not solve the supply problem.

They caution that higher fuel costs could trigger inflationary pressures, affecting transportation, goods pricing, and household budgets.

Implications

If successfully implemented, the 15 per cent duty could reduce Nigeria’s fuel import bill and boost the domestic economy.

Local refineries may become more competitive, offering job creation, capacity building, and economic growth in oil-producing regions.

Osatuyi’s endorsement signals confidence among petroleum marketers and highlights the potential benefits for industry stakeholders.

The policy also demonstrates President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s willingness to take decisive measures to reform Nigeria’s petroleum sector.

Looking Forward

Observers will monitor the impact of the import duty on local refining efficiency, fuel availability, and consumer pricing.

Stakeholders expect government agencies to strengthen enforcement against illegal imports and ensure the benefits reach domestic refineries as intended.

Global investors will be watching closely to assess whether Nigeria can provide a stable and profitable environment for downstream petroleum investment.

The success or failure of this policy could influence future reforms and shape Nigeria’s energy landscape for years to come.

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Economy

FairMoney MD urges digital access to drive $1tn economy

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(DDM) – The Managing Director of FairMoney Microfinance Bank Nigeria, Henry Obiekea, has called for a nationwide push towards fair and inclusive digital finance.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that Obiekea made the statement during a recent financial sector forum attended by industry leaders, regulators, and government officials.

He emphasized that digital financial inclusion is a key driver for Nigeria to achieve the $1 trillion economic agenda outlined by the current administration.

Obiekea explained that the adoption of technology-driven banking services can accelerate economic growth by increasing access to credit, promoting entrepreneurship, and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

He noted that despite Nigeria’s large population, a significant portion of citizens remain unbanked or underbanked, limiting their participation in the formal economy.

“Digital financial services must reach every Nigerian, regardless of location or income level,” Obiekea stated.

He highlighted that mobile banking, fintech platforms, and other innovative financial solutions can help bridge gaps in economic participation and drive productivity across sectors.

The FairMoney MD urged policymakers to implement supportive regulations that enable fintech growth while protecting consumers and ensuring system security.

According to him, collaboration between traditional banks, fintech companies, and government agencies is essential to create a resilient, inclusive digital economy.

Obiekea also stressed that financial literacy programs are crucial to empower Nigerians to take full advantage of digital financial tools.

He pointed out that digital access not only improves personal financial management but also boosts government revenue through broader tax compliance and formal sector engagement.

DDM reports that Obiekea’s call aligns with the administration’s economic diversification strategy, which prioritizes technology, innovation, and financial inclusion as pillars for sustainable growth.

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Industry observers note that expanding digital finance can help Nigeria unlock new markets, attract foreign investment, and enhance the efficiency of domestic trade and payments systems.

Obiekea concluded by urging stakeholders to act swiftly, warning that failure to embrace digital financial inclusion could slow the nation’s progress toward achieving the $1 trillion economy target.

He expressed optimism that with coordinated effort, Nigeria can harness technology to transform its financial landscape and create opportunities for millions of citizens.

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Economy

BREAKING: DDM, DAMA To Host Weekly Blockchain Forum On 2025 Crypto Market Trends

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(DDM) – Diaspora Digital Media (DDM), in partnership with the Digital Assets Management Academy (DAMA), has announced the continuation of its weekly online discussion series titled Blockchain World 2.0.

The upcoming edition, scheduled for Wednesday, November 12, 2025, will explore the topic “Is the 2025 Crypto Bullrun Over?” in what promises to be one of the most engaging blockchain conversations of the year.

DDM corespondent Amaechi okoro confirmed that the live program will begin at 11:00 a.m. Nigeria Time and 11:00 GMT, streaming simultaneously on Zoom and the official DDM YouTube Channel.

According to the organizers, the episode will analyze current trends in the global cryptocurrency market, recent fluctuations in Bitcoin and Ethereum prices, and the factors that may determine whether the ongoing bullrun has reached its end or merely paused.

Participants are expected to include blockchain educators, investors, developers, and policy analysts from across Africa, Europe, and North America.

The session will also examine the growing role of regulatory frameworks, the influence of institutional investors, and the potential impact of artificial intelligence and tokenized assets on the digital economy.

The Zoom meeting details have been made public to ensure open participation:

🔹 Meeting ID: 870 8562 4072

🔹 Passcode: 871871

🔹 Join Link: Click to Join

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87085624072?pwd=t3LNMzrRHuMzoYDABHzPbWXI6go9Ez.1

In addition to live interaction on Zoom, DDM confirmed that the event will be streamed live on YouTube via the Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) channel.

The channel has become a hub for digital knowledge-sharing, focusing on blockchain education, digital transformation, financial literacy, and innovation across Africa’s emerging economies.

READ ALSO:  Dangote refinery faces crude oil supply challenges, turns to imports

Viewers are encouraged to subscribe to the DDM YouTube Channel for real-time notifications and updates whenever the weekly program goes live.

👉🏾 https://youtube.com/@ddmtvnews

The weekly Blockchain World 2.0 series has grown into a consistent platform for digital asset dialogue, bridging the gap between technology and policy while inspiring young Africans to explore blockchain’s potential beyond cryptocurrency trading.

The partnership between DDM and DAMA reflects a shared vision of empowering digital citizens with practical knowledge, policy insights, and exposure to global innovations in fintech, data governance, and asset tokenization.

Organizers noted that this week’s topic, “Is the 2025 Crypto Bullrun Over?”, is particularly timely given the recent volatility in the global crypto market following shifting liquidity patterns and evolving investor confidence.

Experts will provide projections on future price trends, decentralized finance (DeFi) developments, and the sustainability of blockchain adoption in Nigeria’s and Africa’s financial ecosystems.

The hosts encouraged professionals, students, and enthusiasts to participate actively by asking questions, sharing market experiences, and contributing to discussions that can influence Africa’s digital future.

The Blockchain World 2.0 series continues every Wednesday at the same time, offering reliable, research-driven insights into blockchain technology and the future of financial systems worldwide.

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Economy

Black Market Dollar To Naira Rate Holds Steady At ₦1,460

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(DDM) – The Nigerian Naira opened the new week on a relatively stable note in the parallel market, maintaining its position against the United States dollar after a brief appreciation last week.

According to data obtained by Investors King from major Bureau De Change (BDC) operators in Lagos and Abuja, the dollar-to-naira exchange rate stood at ₦1,450 per dollar for buying and ₦1,460 per dollar for selling as of Monday, November 10th, 2025.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the Naira’s resilience is being supported by increased remittance inflows, steady oil revenue, and reduced speculative trading across major trading centers.

Market analysts said steady dollar supply from oil exports and diaspora remittances has helped meet forex demand and stabilize liquidity in the market.

Between Friday, November 7th and Monday, November 10th, the Naira appreciated by ₦10, moving from ₦1,450 to ₦1,460 in the black market.

BDC traders attributed the sustained balance to consistent inflows from remittances, improved foreign exchange circulation, and moderate import-related demand.

However, official rates from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) remain higher, reflecting the persistent disparity between official and black-market values, a long-standing structural challenge in the Nigerian forex landscape.

Experts say the stability in the Naira’s value can be traced to five major factors:

1. Improved Dollar Supply – Driven by oil exports and steady diaspora inflows.

2. Reduced Speculation – CBN’s strict oversight has curbed panic buying.

3. Moderate Dollar Demand – Import activities have slightly declined.

4. Stable Oil Prices – Brent crude holding around $85 per barrel strengthens reserves.

READ ALSO:  Nigeria: former Diamond Bank CEO Uzoma Dozie launch digital banking

5. Improved Confidence – Renewed faith in the government’s monetary management.

Economically, this steady exchange rate is a mixed blessing. Importers and consumers benefit from lower import costs, potentially easing inflation pressures.

Investors also gain short-term confidence from forex stability, while students and travelers find tuition and travel expenses more manageable.

However, financial experts caution that long-term stability will depend on sustained non-oil export growth, increased foreign investments, and bridging the gap between the official and black-market rates.

Looking ahead, analysts forecast that the Naira will trade between ₦1,445 and ₦1,465 per dollar in the coming days if the current fundamentals remain unchanged.

This outlook signals cautious optimism for Nigeria’s economy as it navigates the pressures of inflation, forex demand, and global oil market volatility.

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