The Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Saidu Mohammed, has cautioned African policymakers against rigid fuel specification harmonisation.
He spoke on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, in Cape Town during the African Refiners and Distributors Association Week.
Mohammed explained that while harmonisation is a strategic goal, a uniform approach is impractical.
“Harmonisation must be pragmatic and context-driven. We must align ambition with execution realities,” he said.
Nigeria’s Regulatory Direction
The African Refiners and Distributors Association Week 2026 marked two decades of downstream industry coordination.
Regulators, policymakers, and industry leaders gathered to explore pathways toward a more integrated energy market.
Mohammed pointed to Nigeria’s regulatory direction under the NMDPRA, noting ongoing efforts to tighten fuel quality standards while preserving supply stability.
He stressed that effective regulation must balance sustainability with affordability. “We cannot disrupt supply chains or impose additional cost pressures on consumers,” he added.
He identified stronger collaboration, policy clarity, investment in refining infrastructure, and realistic timelines as key enablers.
According to him, improved alignment will reduce distortions, curb cross-border arbitrage, and enhance regional trade.
Growing Refining Capacity
Mohammed highlighted Africa’s growing refining capacity, particularly in Nigeria, as a lever for harmonisation. “Refining expansion is critical to reducing dependence on imported petroleum products,” he stated.
He argued that harmonisation must reflect diverse realities across African nations. Consequently, a phased approach will allow countries to transition at a pace consistent with domestic conditions.
The session was titled ‘Policy Pathways to Fuel Specification Harmonisation: Regulation, Progress and Ambition’.
It underscored the importance of aligning environmental goals with the realities in the marketplace.
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