The House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream) has sought the support of key operators in the downstream petroleum industry for reforms aimed at ensuring a stable fuel supply, promoting domestic refining, and strengthening Nigeria’s energy security.

The committee met with 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) yesterday at the National Assembly complex in Abuja, as part of efforts to align legislative interventions with industry realities.

Chairman of the committee, Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, said the meeting underscored the House’s commitment to engaging operators before introducing policies affecting the downstream petroleum sector.

“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,” he said.

Ugochinyere stressed that the committee had resolved that no policy affecting the downstream sector would be developed without first consulting those directly involved in petroleum distribution.

He noted that Nigeria was at a defining moment in its energy transition, with expanding domestic refining capacity, evolving import dynamics and renewed efforts to improve pipeline security.

“The marketers, depot owners, independent operators and major marketers remain the bridge between government policy and the pump. When that bridge is strong, Nigerians enjoy stable prices and reliable supply. When it is weak, the entire nation feels the consequences,” he added.

The lawmaker assured stakeholders that their recommendations would be carefully reviewed as the committee works towards policies that encourage investment, strengthen the downstream petroleum industry and guarantee affordable, uninterrupted fuel supply.

He said the committee would continue to prioritise dialogue over confrontation in carrying out its oversight responsibilities and legislative reforms.

Presenting DAPPMAN’s position, its Executive Secretary, Olufemi Adewole, urged the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to issue practical operating-stock guidelines under Section 182 of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), including clear standards for stock measurement, reporting, quality assurance and accessibility.