NMDPRA Shuts Six Unlicensed Lubricant Retail Outlets in Uvwie, Warri

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has intensified its enforcement drive against unlicensed lubricant dealers in Delta State, shutting down no fewer than six retail outlets during a surveillance operation in Warri South and Uvwie Local Government Areas.

The Delta State Coordinator of the NMDPRA, Mr. Godwin Ikomi, disclosed this on Monday shortly after the exercise, warning that the authority would sustain the operation until all lubricant retailers comply with licensing requirements.

According to Ikomi, the agency had earlier engaged executives of the state lubricant retailers’ association in an interactive meeting held in Warri, where stakeholders were sensitised on the need to obtain operating licences. He added that flyers containing registration guidelines were subsequently distributed to operators across filling stations and roadside lubricant outlets.

He expressed concern that many retailers had failed to comply with the directive despite being given ample time, prompting the enforcement action.

“We carried out surveillance on lubricant retailing activities. Before now, we distributed flyers to operators in filling stations and roadside outlets, notifying them of the need to license their facilities.

“Unfortunately, after about six months, many of them have not complied. That informed our decision to embark on surveillance activities aimed at confiscating products and possibly prosecuting those involved in the illegal sale of lubricants,” he said.

Ikomi stated that the exercise would continue across the state until the agency achieves full compliance from operators.

He further alleged that some retailers resisted the enforcement team during the operation.

“Our team was assaulted and resisted in the field by some retailers, but we are not relenting. The surveillance is an ongoing exercise until we achieve our objective,” he said.

The coordinator stressed that anyone involved in the sale of engine lubricants must obtain the appropriate operating licence from the authority.

“If you must sell lubricants, you must have the appropriate licence; otherwise, you will not be allowed to sell the products. We all know the dangers posed by fake or substandard lubricants,” he added.

Ikomi explained that the licensing regime is designed to protect producers, distributors, retailers and consumers by enhancing product traceability and helping regulators distinguish genuine lubricants from adulterated products.

He noted that while some operators had already complied with the directive, the ongoing surveillance would encourage others to regularise their operations.

The NMDPRA coordinator urged all lubricant dealers yet to obtain operating licences to do so promptly in order to avoid sanctions and remain in business legally.