NMDPRA Intensifies Crackdown On Illegal LPG Retail Outlets In Akwa Ibom

In a decisive move to enhance safety and compliance in the downstream petroleum sector, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Resources Authority (NMDPRA) has begun a clampdown on illegal Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) retail outlets in Akwa Ibom State. This initiative aims to address the proliferation of unlicensed operations that pose significant risks to public safety.

Enforcing Compliance

The state Coordinator of NMDPRA, Ikechukwu Eseka, disclosed the ongoing enforcement activities during a courtesy visit by Bakshar Hussaini, the state Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), on Thursday.

“We have started enforcement against LPG retailers involved in illegal decanting, unlicensed filling stations, LPG refilling plants, and other unauthorized downstream operations in the state,” Eseka revealed. He emphasized that many of these operations utilize substandard gas equipment and engage in unsafe practices, increasing the risk of accidents.

Eseka also issued a stern warning to LPG plant owners, stating that they must refrain from loading gas for individuals or entities without valid NMDPRA licenses. He highlighted the illegality of decanting gas from cylinder to cylinder, describing it as a punishable offense under the law.

Call for Registration and Licensing

In an effort to streamline operations and ensure regulatory compliance, Eseka urged marketers to register and renew their licenses before engaging in LPG-related activities. He also disclosed that the Authority had begun engaging individuals and organizations using storage tanks exceeding 500 litres, encouraging them to register with NMDPRA.

“We are sealing filling stations and addressing cases of organizations using diesel for industrial purposes without proper registration. This enforcement ensures accountability and safety in the downstream sector,” he stated.

Strengthening Partnerships

The visit also served as an opportunity for the NMDPRA and NSCDC to strengthen collaboration in curbing illegal LPG operations. Commandant Hussaini expressed his commitment to working with the Authority to tackle indiscriminate LPG decanting and other unsafe practices in the state.

“Some individuals use their homes to sell cooking gas, creating environmental hazards for the public,” Hussaini lamented. He urged NMDPRA to handle enforcement with a “human face” to balance regulatory measures with the socio-economic realities faced by operators.

Promoting Public Safety

Both agencies reiterated their shared goal of safeguarding lives and property while fostering a compliant and efficient LPG sector. With this crackdown, NMDPRA aims to mitigate the dangers associated with illegal LPG operations and promote sustainable practices across the state.

This initiative underscores the importance of regulatory compliance in enhancing public safety and ensuring the integrity of Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector.

• Lpg
• cooking gas
• nmdpra
• nigeria

Oluwabukola Jimoh

Oluwabukola Jimoh is a dynamic academic writer and captivating energy blogger. She is able to delve into intricate subjects with an insatiable thirst for knowledge, crafting thought-provoking essays that engage and enlighten her readers.