NMDPRA Uncovers Under-Dispensing at Petrol Stations, Warns of Licence Revocation
By Aboki Forex —
The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has uncovered cases of petroleum retailers allegedly giving customers less fuel than they paid for, warning that affected stations could lose their operating licences.
The regulator described the practice, known as under-dispensing, as a serious violation of consumers' rights and said it would step up inspections and enforcement nationwide.
Operators Ordered to Calibrate Pumps
NMDPRA issued the warning in a statement on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, directing all petrol station operators to immediately check and calibrate their dispensing equipment.
According to the authority, retail outlet operators must carry out immediate calibration and verification of their fuel dispensers and totalizers to ensure accurate measurement.
NMDPRA said the directive was necessary to protect consumers and guarantee that motorists receive the exact quantity of petroleum products for which they pay. It warned that under-dispensing undermines consumer confidence and would not be tolerated across the downstream petroleum sector.
The regulator said it had intensified inspections and enforcement operations across the country to identify outlets that fail to comply with dispensing standards.
Petrol stations found to be under-dispensing, using poorly calibrated equipment or engaging in practices that compromise measurement accuracy will be ordered to take immediate corrective action.
The authority warned that persistent or serious violations could attract sanctions, including the revocation of the affected outlet's operating licence.
Marketer Groups Told to Enforce Compliance
NMDPRA also directed major industry groups to inform their members about the directive and support compliance. The groups are the Major Energy Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN), Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) and Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN).
The regulator said it remains committed to protecting consumers, improving transparency and maintaining the integrity of petroleum product transactions nationwide.
Price Template Clarification
The warning comes days after the authority clarified on September 20 that it does not determine petrol prices or issue administrative price templates for petroleum products.
It also follows related developments in the downstream sector, including reported moves by NNPC to restart the Warri and Port Harcourt refineries as petrol prices hovered around N1,400 per litre.
What This Means for Motorists
For Nigerian motorists and businesses that run on petrol, the directive puts filling stations on notice that pump accuracy is now an enforcement issue, not just a consumer complaint. Stations that fail calibration checks risk corrective orders and, in serious or repeated cases, the loss of their licences.