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The Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ECCIMA) has thrown its weight behind the Federal Government’s decision to impose a 15% import tax on petrol and diesel, describing it as a progressive step that will boost job creation, strengthen the naira, and accelerate Nigeria’s industrial growth.
According to the Chamber, the new policy aligns with the “Nigeria First” agenda and is expected to incentivize local refining, reduce dependence on imported fuel, and stimulate economic activities across value chains.
ECCIMA noted that the country cannot achieve currency stability or sustainable development while relying heavily on imported goods, especially products that can be produced domestically.
In a statement issued in Enugu, ECCIMA emphasized that excessive importation has long weakened the naira, drained foreign reserves, and stifled local industries.
The Chamber commended the government for taking what it called a “bold and strategic” step to protect local investments and stimulate homegrown production.
“The 15% import tax is not punitive—it is corrective,” ECCIMA stated.
“It will encourage domestic production, promote industrial self-sufficiency, and create employment for Nigeria’s teeming youth population. The more we produce locally, the stronger our economy and currency will become.”
The Chamber recalled that Nigeria’s overreliance on refined petroleum imports dates back to the 1990s, marking the beginning of the nation’s prolonged economic decline.
It noted that years of neglect of the country’s refineries and indiscriminate issuance of import licenses have worsened fiscal instability and contributed to the naira’s depreciation.
ECCIMA further lauded the Dangote Petroleum Refinery for leading the charge in restoring Nigeria’s refining capacity. It described Alhaji Aliko Dangote’s investment as a national asset capable of meeting domestic fuel needs and generating foreign exchange through exports.
The Chamber also urged the Federal Government to grant more licenses to indigenous firms to establish modular refineries, eliminate bureaucratic delays, and attract new investors.
It stressed that with proper implementation and stakeholder collaboration, the import tax policy could transform Nigeria into a net exporter of refined petroleum products.
“This is the kind of bold economic reform Nigeria needs. We must all support policies that prioritize indigenous capacity, protect local industries, and position our economy for long-term growth,” the group said.
