The Senate Committee on Petroleum Sector has moved to address the long running disagreement over responsibilities between the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority and the Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority. The effort is aimed at improving coordination within the regulatory space and boosting investor confidence in the country’s energy sector.
Abdulrahman Sumaila, who chairs the Senate Committee on Downstream Petroleum Sector, gave the assurance at the close of a five day retreat held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
He said the committee was focused on producing recommendations that can be applied in practical terms, with the goal of encouraging regulatory alignment, strengthening energy security, and supporting steady economic growth.
Speaking on the purpose of the gathering, Sumaila said it was created to offer a neutral setting where stakeholders could engage on shared concerns in the sector.
“The objectives of the retreat are to facilitate meaningful dialogue among all stakeholders on issues arising from overlapping statutory mandates and develop practical coordination frameworks capable of promoting seamless regulation while respecting the lawful mandates of the institutions involved,” he said
