The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) have established a joint committee to enhance consumer protection in the energy sector. This development is aimed at addressing recurring complaints related to competitive practices and service delivery in the oil and gas industry.
According to a statement by the NMDPRA, the 10-member Joint-Technical Working Committee was inaugurated to share market data, monitor and investigate anti-competitive practices, and ensure adequate consumer protection. Executive Director, Distribution Systems, Storage and Retailing Infrastructure (DSSRI), Ogbugo Ukoha, represented the NMDPRA Chief Executive, Farouk Ahmed, at the event in Abuja. Ukoha stressed that the committee’s primary objective is to address concerns relating to competitive practices and service delivery in the sector.
The committee, led by the FCCPC’s Deputy Director of Surveillance and Investigation, Omagu Nwachukwu, and Charles Nwachukwu, Head of the Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre of the NMDPRA, is expected to identify potential threats to the sector and escalate such issues to the top management of both organizations. The collaboration between the NMDPRA and the FCCPC aims to establish a level playing field for operators, prevent monopoly, and provide modalities for prosecution in cases where abuse is established after further investigation.
This joint initiative is significant, as it demonstrates the commitment of both regulatory bodies to protecting consumers and promoting fair competition in the energy sector. The committee’s work is expected to have a positive impact on the industry, ensuring that operators comply with regulatory requirements and that consumers receive fair treatment. As the energy sector continues to evolve, this collaborative effort will play a crucial role in shaping the industry’s future and maintaining a stable market environment. The NMDPRA and FCCPC have taken a vital step towards strengthening consumer protection, and their efforts will be closely watched by industry stakeholders and consumers alike.
