Date Published: 10/31/09

THE PRESIDENCY

PETROLEUM PRODUCTS PRICING REGULATORY AGENCY

No. 1/3, Sankuru Close, off Rima/Gurara Streets, Maitama, P.M.B. 609, Garki, Abuja.

Tel: 234-9-4138613, 4138614. Fax: 4138654. E-mail: es@pppra-nigeria.org

PPPRA Was Not Directed to Withhold Importation 

The Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) is alarmed by reports in some national dailies, thatthe Agency has been directed by the Federal Government to stop the issuance of import licenses to petroleum products Marketers. 

Ordinarily, we would have ignored such inciting and misleading reports, but for the purposes of putting the facts straight, the Agency has deemed it necessary to state the issues as they truly are. 

The Agency has observed with keen interest, the issues being raised on the importation of petroleum products.  There is no iota of truth in the statement credited to the Agency that the Federal Government has given a directive preventing the importation of petroleum products. Indeed, products have been imported into the country in large volumes to meet our national requirements. The Agency has continued to monitor the supply situation and is taking every step required to ensure that there is no disruption whatsoever in the supply system. 

With all emphasis at our disposal, the Federal Government HAS NOT directed the Agency to act contrary to the provision of its mandate; to ensure availability of products nationwide and maintain a level playing field for all stakeholders. 

Furthermore, the PPPRA will also like to reiterate that contrary to recent speculations in the media on the proposed deregulation of the downstream oil sector, the Agency has not received directives from any quarter that the policy will commence on November 1, 2009. Nigerians are hereby reassured of government’s determination to continue to engage all Stakeholders on the subject before the take-off of the policy.  

The PPPRA hereby wishes to assure Nigerians of its commitment to service delivery and its continued resolve in ensuring adequate supply and distribution of petroleum products nationwide.

Signed:  

Executive Secretary, PPPRA

30 October 2009