The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPR) has issued a strong warning to fuel stations against under-dispensing fuel to customers. Violators will face severe penalties, including significant fines and potential license suspension. The NMDPR emphasizes that it has already penalized several stations for this misconduct and will continue to do so.

Godwin Ogbe, the NMDPR Kogi State Coordinator, reiterated this stance during the inauguration of WALVICOLA Oil & Gas in Lokoja. He commended WALVICOLA for adhering to the necessary standards and regulatory requirements in establishing their new station. Ogbe urged the public to report any station suspected of under-dispensing fuel, assuring that such establishments would face appropriate sanctions. He clarified that while deregulation allows stations to set prices based on depot rates, they must maintain fairness and transparency in their transactions.

Ogbe stated unequivocally that any station caught cheating customers will face the full force of the law, with the assurance that "Ten litres must mean ten litres." Consequences for violations include license suspension and the imposition of heavy fines.

WALVICOLA has been recognized for meeting all regulatory requirements, including the use of calibrated dispensing meters, demonstrating their commitment to transparency and customer service. Pius Kolawole, the Managing Director of WALVICOLA, stated that the new station aims to provide high-quality fuel at competitive prices, addressing fuel shortages and rising costs in Lokoja. The Lokoja branch is WALVICOLA's sixth station, reflecting their dedication to expanding their presence in Kogi, with plans for further expansion in the state.

Olusegun Joseph, the Kogi Commissioner for Environment, praised WALVICOLA for its contribution to boosting the state's economy and creating employment opportunities, viewing the investment as timely and aligned with the state's growth and development policies. The government has pledged to foster a business-friendly environment for WALVICOLA and other investors.

In a gesture of goodwill, WALVICOLA distributed N2000 worth of fuel to select motorists and tricyclists, and N1500 to some motorcyclists, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Meanwhile, there are rising expectations that petrol prices in Nigeria could be reduced by filling stations due to a recent slump in crude oil prices. Marketers of refined petroleum products indicate that depots across the country have already adjusted their ex-depot petrol prices, offering independent marketers slightly lower rates.