The Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has warned operators of illegal petrol outlets in Rivers State to regularise their operations or face severe sanctions. The warning was delivered in Port Harcourt by Mr. George Ene‑Ita, Regional Coordinator for the South‑South, during a meeting with senior executives in the petroleum sector. Ene‑Ita announced that the authority has also instructed depots across the region to enforce the “no‑license‑no‑lifting” policy for petroleum products.
He explained that a list of illegal outlets has been compiled and that all unlicensed retail stations have until the end of April to approach the authorities and regularise their establishments. After that deadline, “dire consequences will be meted out.” Ene‑Ita emphasized that the NMDPRA is now sending notices to illegal or unlicensed filling stations and will strictly implement the no‑license‑no‑lifting policy. “If you are not giving the regulatory space, how can we be sure you are upholding basic protocols of the facility you are operating?” he asked.
The regulator also announced plans to restart technical safety audits of petrol retail outlets and related activities. Ene‑Ita highlighted the alarming safety record, noting that at least one death occurs every four days during product movement, with 412 fatalities in 244 accidents recorded between 2018 and the first quarter of 2023. “The fire incidents up until now have been quite alarming. Just this year alone, we have about 18 fatalities. This is unacceptable,” he said.
He stressed the need to re‑engage stakeholders and reinforce safety procedures, noting that every facility contributes to employment and the country’s Gross Domestic Product. “That is why we are here today,” he concluded.
Francis Dimkpa, Chairman of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria in Rivers State, commended the NMDPRA’s steps to reduce hazards in the sector.
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