By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The National Petroleum Regulatory Authority has announced an immediate nationwide moratorium on the construction of gas stations as part of efforts to address the growing concern over the operation of unregistered and unauthorised facilities across the country.
In a notice issued by the Authority, it stated that the decision takes effect immediately and is intended to regulate the sector while ensuring that all fuel related infrastructure complies with established safety and operational standards.
According to the National Petroleum Regulatory Authority, the moratorium is aimed at preventing the continued emergence of gas stations that operate without proper approval or fail to meet regulatory requirements.
The Authority explained that the directive means all new construction of gas stations must stop until further notice. It further clarified that the suspension also affects applications that are currently being processed.
As part of the new directive, the Authority confirmed that all ongoing applications for the construction of gas stations have been nullified. This means that individuals or companies that had previously submitted applications will no longer have those requests considered under the current process.
The Authority also ordered that any gas station currently under construction must immediately halt work. It stressed that any application connected to projects already under construction will not be accepted or reviewed during the period of the moratorium.
Officials of the regulatory body said the move is necessary to allow for a comprehensive assessment of the current situation in the sector and to ensure that safety standards are not compromised.
During the period of the moratorium, the Authority said it will carry out a nationwide evaluation exercise focused on compliance with existing regulations governing the construction and operation of gas stations.
Particular attention will be placed on ensuring that fuel stations are located at appropriate distances from public facilities. These facilities include entertainment centres, health institutions, schools and religious establishments among others.
The Authority noted that the evaluation process will help determine whether existing and proposed facilities meet the required guidelines designed to protect communities and prevent potential safety risks.
It emphasized that the growing number of fuel stations in close proximity to sensitive public spaces has raised concerns about safety, environmental protection and urban planning.
The National Petroleum Regulatory Authority assured the public that the exercise is intended to strengthen regulatory oversight and ensure that only facilities that meet the required standards are allowed to operate.
The Authority also warned that individuals or companies that fail to comply with the directive will face strict penalties.
It affirmed that any breach of the order will attract punitive measures in accordance with the provisions of the NPRA Act, stressing that enforcement will be carried out without exception.
The Authority called on the public and industry stakeholders to cooperate with the directive as efforts continue to improve safety and regulatory compliance within the petroleum sector.
