ABUJA — The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has ordered petroleum retail outlet operators across Nigeria to immediately calibrate and verify their dispensing pumps and totalizers following reports of under-dispensing of petroleum products to consumers.

The directive, communicated to members of the Petroleum Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN), is part of an intensified nationwide inspection and enforcement campaign by the downstream petroleum regulator.

PETROAN President, Prince Billy Gillis-Harry, urged members to comply immediately, warning that petrol stations found operating inaccurate dispensing equipment could face regulatory sanctions.

According to the association, the NMDPRA considers under-dispensing a breach of consumer trust and has made accurate measurement of petroleum products a priority in its latest enforcement activities.

Retail outlet operators have therefore been directed to inspect, calibrate and verify all dispensing pumps and totalizers to ensure that the quantity displayed and paid for by motorists corresponds with the volume actually delivered.

NMDPRA steps up nationwide inspections

The regulator has also intensified inspections of petroleum retail outlets across the country, according to PETROAN.

Stations found to be under-dispensing products, operating improperly calibrated equipment or engaging in practices that compromise dispensing accuracy will be required to take immediate corrective action.

PETROAN said persistent or serious violations could attract sanctions, including revocation of operating licences, in accordance with applicable regulations.

The association said it was specifically requested by the NMDPRA to communicate the directive to its members and support its implementation across the retail network.

Gillis-Harry consequently urged operators to ensure that all dispensing equipment under their management is inspected and properly calibrated without delay.

He also advised retailers to maintain accurate records of calibration and equipment maintenance and to cooperate fully with NMDPRA inspection teams.

Consumer protection becomes key enforcement issue

The latest directive places dispensing accuracy at the centre of the regulator’s efforts to protect consumers and improve standards across Nigeria’s downstream petroleum market.

PETROAN said compliance would also help strengthen transparency and public confidence in petroleum retail operations at a time when motorists and other consumers are closely monitoring fuel prices and product volumes.

The association urged its members to uphold transparency, integrity and consumer protection across their operations, saying adherence to regulatory standards was essential to preserving the credibility of the petroleum retail sector.

“Together, we must continue to protect the interests of consumers and preserve the credibility and reputation of petroleum retail operations throughout Nigeria,” Gillis-Harry said.

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