The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has secured the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in Niger State to provide security backing for its regulatory inspection and enforcement operations.
The commitment was made when the NMDPRA State Coordinator for Niger State, Engr. Musa Isyaku, led a delegation on a courtesy visit to the Niger State Police Command Headquarters in Dutsen-kura, Minna, where he met with the Commissioner of Police, CP Adamu Abdullahi Elleman.
During the visit, Isyaku highlighted the Authority’s mandate to regulate activities in the midstream and downstream petroleum sectors, stressing the importance of police support during inspection and enforcement exercises against illegal and unlicensed operators.
He also drew the attention of the Police Command to reports of individuals impersonating NMDPRA officials to extort petroleum marketers.
The State Coordinator further raised concerns over the alleged fabrication of NMDPRA identification cards and number plates, urging the Police to investigate the activities and take appropriate action.
Responding, CP Elleman assured the NMDPRA delegation of the Command’s readiness to deepen collaboration with the Authority, particularly in the areas of regulatory enforcement, inspection and protection of regulatory personnel.
The Commissioner of Police pledged adequate security support for legitimate NMDPRA operations and assured the delegation that the complaints raised would be investigated.
The engagement reinforced the commitment of both agencies to promoting regulatory compliance, protecting legitimate petroleum businesses and curbing illegal activities in Niger State’s petroleum sector.