The House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream) has initiated efforts to resolve the growing tension between petroleum product importers and domestic refiners, as part of moves to strengthen Nigeria’s downstream oil and gas sector.
To this end, the committee on Tuesday held an interactive session with key industry stakeholders to discuss practical solutions aimed at promoting energy security, improving collaboration and advancing sustainable reforms in the downstream petroleum industry.
The meeting brought together leaders of the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), and the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN).
Speaking during the meeting, Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere, said the engagement reflected the House’s commitment to inclusive lawmaking and stakeholder-driven reforms.
He stressed that the National Assembly would continue to prioritise dialogue and constructive engagement over confrontation in carrying out its legislative and oversight responsibilities.
“We are here not to interrogate, not to accuse and not to put anyone on trial. We are here to listen. We are here to talk to one another as partners who share one common destiny—a Nigeria where energy is affordable, supply is stable and no citizen suffers because petroleum products are out of reach,” Ugochinyere said.
He noted that Nigeria is at a critical stage in its energy transition, citing increased domestic refining capacity, changing import dynamics and renewed efforts to improve pipeline security and fuel distribution.
According to him, marketers, depot owners, independent operators and major marketers serve as the vital link between government policies and consumers.
“When that bridge is strong, Nigerians enjoy stable prices and reliable supply. When it is weak, the entire nation feels the consequences,” he added.
Presenting the position of independent marketers, IPMAN National President Abubakar Shettima identified several challenges affecting the downstream sector, including high financing costs, multiple taxation, foreign exchange volatility, inadequate storage and transportation infrastructure, pipeline vandalism and limited access by independent marketers to products from local refineries.
Shettima urged the House committee to champion reforms that would improve logistics, encourage healthy market competition, reduce distribution costs, attract investment and ensure the nationwide availability and affordability of petroleum products.
The engagement comes amid growing calls for stronger collaboration between fuel importers, marketers and domestic refiners as Nigeria seeks to maximise local refining capacity, improve energy security and build a more competitive downstream petroleum market.
