Purpose
To explore the current and future landscape of petroleum product quality in Nigeria, addressing key challenges and proposing solutions through a comprehensive discussion of policy frameworks, regulatory standards, and industry best practices.
Presentations
Clement Isong – CEO/ES, MEMAN
Goodwill Messages:
- Olufemi Adewole – ES of DAPPMAN
- Dr Hammed Fasola – Representing the President of IPMAN
Panel Discussion:
- Dr Mustapha Lamorde – Executive Director, Health, Safety, Environment, and Community, NMDPRA
- Paul Pankes – Group Head Chemical Technology, SON – Representing the Director-General of SON
- Dr Omotayo Ogunwede – Representing the Director-General, National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC)
- George Nwakaihe – Business Manager, SGS Inspector Services Nigeria Limited
- Echem Nkem Jacob – Managing Director, Jankech Quality Service Limited
- Shaire Omotejowho – Chairperson, MEMAN Chemists Committee
Closing Remarks:
Gabriel Orukpe – Chairman, MEMAN HSSEQ Committee
Moderator:
Adelanke Dayo-Adepoju
The Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN) hosted a strategic webinar titled “The Future of Petroleum Product Quality in Nigeria.” The session gathered key industry stakeholders to address regulatory challenges, fuel quality standards, and strategies for aligning Nigeria’s fuel specifications with global best practices.
Panelists
The webinar featured distinguished industry experts:
- Dr. Mustapha Lamorde – Executive Director, HSEC, NMDPRA
- Paul Pankes – Group Head of Chemical Technology, representing the Director-General, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON)
- Dr. Omotayo Ogunwede – Representing the Director-General, National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC)
- George Nwakaihe – Business Manager, SGS Inspector Services Nigeria Limited
- Echem Nkem Jacob – Managing Director, Jankech Quality Service Limited
- Shaire Omotejowho – Chairperson, MEMAN Chemists Committee
Opening Remarks
Mr. Clement Isong, CEO of MEMAN, emphasized the urgent need to enhance fuel quality standards to protect consumers, reduce environmental hazards, and improve operational efficiency. He reaffirmed MEMAN’s commitment to fostering collaboration between industry players and regulators to drive sustained improvements.
Goodwill Messages
Prominent industry leaders reinforced the importance of compliance:
- Mr. Adewole Olufemi, Executive Secretary, DAPPMAN – Highlighted that fuel quality is the bedrock of the oil and gas industry and must be upheld consistently.
- Mr. Paul Pankes, Group Head of Chemical Technology, SON – Reaffirmed SON’s commitment to enforcing high-quality petroleum product standards.
- Dr. Hammed Fasola – Delivered a goodwill message on behalf of IPMAN’s president, emphasizing collaboration for improved fuel quality.
Key Insights from the Technical Session
Petroleum Product Specifications and Standardization (SON’s Perspective)
Mr. Paul Pankes, led the technical session on petroleum product specifications, he spoke on the specification and standardization of petroleum product; challenges and prospects identifying major challenges such as:
- Regulatory and Enforcement Gaps – Fuel adulteration persists due to weak compliance mechanisms.
- Harmonization of Standards – Aligning Nigeria’s fuel specifications with global benchmarks is essential.
- Stakeholder Collaboration – A collective approach is needed to close quality gaps.
- Investment in Research & Development – SON is investing in research to enhance product quality.
Regulatory Landscape and Compliance (NMDPRA’s Perspective)
Dr. Mustapha Lamorde PhD, R. Engr., MNSE, CEngr, highlighted the authority’s ongoing efforts to strengthen compliance and align Nigeria’s fuel quality standards with international practices. Key points included:
- Collaboration with SON – Strengthening joint efforts to uphold high-quality standards.
- Transition to AFRI-5 Standards – Phasing out high-sulfur fuels (targeting 50 PPM sulfur content for PMS and AGO).
- NIS 2017 Product Specification Review – Ongoing review aligning with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.
- PIA 2021 Compliance Mandates – Empowering NMDPRA to monitor compliance and certify testing laboratories.
Fuel Volatility, Performance, and Safety Considerations
Mr. Echem Nkem Jacob examined technical parameters affecting fuel performance:
- Fuel Volatility (T10, T50, T90) – Affects fuel economy and engine startup efficiency.
- Octane Rating and Knock Resistance – Higher octane fuels enhance performance and engine longevity.
- Sulfur and Manganese Content – Excessive levels contribute to engine degradation and environmental pollution.
Effectiveness of Fuel Standards and Industry Self-Regulation
Fuel quality in Nigeria is subject to periodic reviews to ensure compliance with evolving industry needs. MEMAN’s initiatives include:
- Self-Regulation Guidelines – Regular monitoring of fuel quality at retail stations.
- Planning for Biofuels and Cleaner Energy Alternatives – Developing handling and storage guidelines.
- Investment in Testing Infrastructure – Strengthening testing capabilities and personnel training.
- Collaborative Efforts with Regulatory Agencies – Continuous engagement with NMDPRA, SON, and industry players.
Recommendations and Next Steps
The webinar concluded with key action points:
- Stronger Enforcement – Intensified monitoring to eliminate substandard products.
- Continued Stakeholder Engagement – Sustained dialogue to address emerging challenges.
- Capacity Building and Awareness – Enhancing industry knowledge and promoting compliance.
- Final Review for Publishing Updated Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS) for White Products – Ensuring alignment with global best practices.
Conclusion
MEMAN remains dedicated to driving industry-wide compliance and ensuring that Nigeria’s petroleum sector upholds globally accepted quality standards. Moving forward, MEMAN will work closely with regulators and stakeholders to safeguard fuel quality, enhance safety, and protect consumer interests.