The Petroleum Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has ordered its members nationwide to immediately inspect, calibrate and verify their fuel dispensing pumps and totalizers following a directive by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) over alleged under-dispensing of petroleum products.
The association said the regulator had intensified inspections and enforcement at filling stations, warning that operators found short-changing consumers through inaccurate dispensing equipment could face sanctions, including the loss of their operating licences.
In a circular signed by its National President, Dr Billy Gillis-Harry, and National Secretary, Barr. Adedibu Aderibigbe, PETROAN said the directive followed an NMDPRA industry circular describing under-dispensing as a breach of consumer trust that would not be tolerated.
PETROAN said NMDPRA specifically directed industry associations, including PETROAN, to notify their members and support compliance with the enforcement drive.
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Under the directive, operators are required to conduct immediate calibration and verification of dispensing equipment to ensure accurate measurement and guarantee that motorists and other consumers receive the full quantity of products paid for.
The association also directed members to maintain proper records of calibration and maintenance activities and cooperate with NMDPRA inspection teams.
PETROAN said outlets found under-dispensing, operating with improperly calibrated equipment or otherwise compromising dispensing accuracy would be required to take immediate corrective action.
It warned that persistent or serious violations could attract tougher regulatory sanctions, including revocation of operating licences.
The association urged members to treat the directive with “utmost seriousness”, stressing that compliance was necessary to protect consumers and maintain transparency in petroleum product transactions.
“Your prompt action and full compliance with this directive are highly appreciated,” PETROAN said.
Pinnacle Daily had reported that the NMDPRA circular, titled “NMDPRA Strengthens Enforcement Against Under-Dispensing at Retail Outlets,” directed the Major Energy Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN), Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) and PETROAN to ensure their members comply.
NMDPRA said fuel stations found to be involved in under-dispensing petroleum products, would face sanctions, including revocation of their operating licence.
The downstream regulator said the intensified enforcement was part of efforts to protect consumers and uphold the integrity of petroleum product transactions across the country.
Victor Ezeja is a Nigerian journalist skilled in producing insightful news analyses, feature stories, and interviews that simplify complex issues and drive informed public discourse. His work combines rigorous research, balanced reporting, and compelling storytelling to highlight developments shaping industries and society. Victor, who holds a Master's Degree in Mass Communication, specializes in energy, aviation, business, and economic reporting. He can be reached via @VICTOREZEJA on X