**Compliance with fuel quality standards in Nigeria: a priority for the oil industry**
The oil industry in Nigeria is central to the national economy, providing a large portion of the country’s revenue. However, it also faces significant challenges, particularly regarding the quality of imported fuels. In recent months, allegations have emerged that some distributors were importing poor quality fuel, putting consumer health and the environment at risk.
The Petroleum Products Distributors Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) recently reacted to the allegations, stressing that quality standards of imported fuels must be strictly adhered to. Indeed, compliance with specifications approved by the Nigeria Petroleum Products Transport and Distribution Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) is essential to guarantee vehicle performance and environmental protection.
According to DAPPMAN, no depot should import fuel outside the specifications approved by the relevant authorities. The association stressed that measures have been taken to ensure that loading operations at sea meet established standards, to avoid any contamination of the fuel.
Additionally, DAPPMAN highlighted recent changes to fuel sulfur standards. If the authority had initially set a maximum limit of 200 ppm for imports of diesel between February and May 2024, it then brought forward the deadline for the limitation to 50 ppm of sulfur in imports of unleaded fuel and diesel to June 1, instead of December 31, 2024.
These regulatory developments highlight the need to strengthen monitoring and control of fuel imports to ensure compliance with international quality standards. It is essential that those in the oil industry work together to maintain ethical business practices and ensure consumer safety.
In conclusion, compliance with quality standards of imported fuels is essential to preserve the integrity of the petroleum industry in Nigeria. Competent authorities, distributors and consumers must work together to ensure that only high quality fuels are made available to the public, while respecting environmental standards.