By Mary Izuaka

 

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has intensified enforcement against under-dispensing of petroleum products at retail outlets nationwide, warning that defaulting stations risk licence revocation.

The Authority, in a circular posted on its official X handle on Tuesday, said it has observed incidents of under-dispensing of petroleum products at retail outlets nationwide, describing it as a serious breach of consumer trust that will not be tolerated.

To safeguard the interests of consumers, the NMDPRA directed all retail outlet operators to carry out immediate calibration and verification of all dispensers and totalizers.

NMDPRA said the directive is intended to guarantee accurate measurement and ensure that consumers receive full value for products they pay for. 

It said inspections and enforcement activities have been intensified across the country to ensure compliance.

“Outlets found to be under-dispensing, operating with improperly calibrated equipment, or otherwise compromising dispensing accuracy will be required to take immediate corrective action,” NMDPRA said.

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Sanctions

It added that persistent or serious violations will attract appropriate sanctions, including revocation of operating licences in line with its regulations.

The NMDPRA called on industry associations – the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN), Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), and Petroleum Products Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) to promptly notify their members of the directive and support full compliance.

The Authority said it remains committed to protecting consumers, promoting transparency and upholding integrity in petroleum product transactions nationwide.