February 8, 2022

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (The Authority), NMDPRA, said it has identified the source supplier of the non-specification petrol which came mixed with methanol above Nigeria’s specification.

The petrol, according to the regulatory body was immediately withdrawn from further circulation to avert danger it might cause vehicles and equipment. This, the Authority said, was the cause of the fuel queues seen in Abuja and Lagos, especially.

A statement issued by the Authority assured the general public that the situation is under control as NNPC limited and all oil marketing companies have been directed to sustain sufficient distribution of petrol in all retail outlets nationwide.

The statements reads:

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (The Authority) wishes to inform the general public that – limited quantity of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as Petrol, with methanol quantities above Nigeria’s specification was discovered in the supply chain.

 Methanol is a regular additive in Petrol and usually blended in an acceptable quantity.

 To ensure vehicular and equipment safety, the limited quantity of the impacted product has been isolated and withdrawn from the market, including the loaded trucks in transit

 Our technical team in conjunction with NNPC Ltd and other industry stakeholders, will continue to monitor and ensure quality petroleum products are adequately supplied and distributed nationwide.

 The source supplier has been identified and further commercial and appropriate actions shall be taken by the Authority and NNPC Ltd.

 NNPC Ltd and all Oil Marketing Companies have been directed to sustain sufficient distribution of Petrol in all retail outlets nationwide.  

Meanwhile, NNPC has intensified efforts at increasing the supply of Petrol into the market in order to bridge any unforeseen supply gap.