The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has issued a warning to fuel stations that engage in the alteration of petroleum pumps.
Farouk Ahmed, the Chief Executive of NMDPRA, conveyed this message during an interactive session with commissioners of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) in Abuja on Friday.
Ahmed emphasised that petrol stations caught dispensing fuel with manipulated fuel pumps would face severe sanctions, which could include the revocation of their operating licences, suspension of operations, or even a complete shutdown, depending on the seriousness of the violation. The adjustment of fuel pumps by filling station operators is a major concern for both oil regulatory bodies and the Federal Government.
He explained that NMDPRA staff are conducting on-the-spot checks at various petrol stations to verify their compliance with pump regulations. He pointed out that customers often can’t tell if they’ve been cheated until they measure the dispensed fuel. The authority conducts physical measurements to ensure that the quantity dispensed matches the indicated amount on the pump, thus detecting any tampering.
The NMDPRA chief emphasised the need for continued collaboration with RMAFC to enhance revenue generation for the federation. This partnership aims to explore avenues to increase revenue or reduce costs for the government.
Ahmed encouraged citizens to invest in the midstream sector of the economy, particularly in areas like building gas plants. He assured potential investors that the authority would provide guidelines and policies to facilitate their investments, with the cost depending on the specific sector of interest.
Bello Shehu, the chairman of RMAFC, highlighted that the engagement between the two organisations is intended to strengthen their partnership and explore opportunities for mutual benefit.
