NMDPRA Unveils 138 New Regulations to Curb Unfair Monopoly in Petroleum Downstream Sector

​Enforcing Fair Market Pricing and Equal Access

​The new regulatory framework establishes stringent guidelines for open-access utilization of critical petroleum infrastructure, such as marine reception terminals, storage depots, and multi-product pipelines. Under the provisions, dominant refiners and bulk terminal operators are expressly prohibited from engaging in discriminatory wholesale discounting, tied-selling agreements, or artificial depot rationing designed to squeeze out independent marketers.

​NMDPRA leadership emphasized that full downstream deregulation must coexist with transparent competitive safeguards. With major domestic refineries scaling production alongside active private fuel importers, the regulator is mandating digital inventory disclosures to ensure fair pump price discovery across all geopolitical zones.

​Protecting Independent Petroleum Marketers

​The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) and major distribution associations have welcomed the move, noting that access to loading points on fair commercial terms will prevent artificial scarcity. The regulations also introduce heavy financial penalties and license suspensions for operators found colluding on pump tariffs or engaging in regional fuel hoarding.