The National Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NPRA) has announced an immediate nationwide suspension on the construction of gas stations in a move aimed at controlling the rapid spread of unregistered and unauthorized fuel facilities.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, the Authority said the decision takes effect immediately and is intended to address the growing number of gas stations being built without proper approval, in violation of safety standards and regulatory guidelines.
The NPRA further disclosed that all applications and pending requests for the construction of gas stations have been nullified during the period of the suspension.
According to the Authority, any gas station currently under construction without proper authorization must stop work immediately, warning that the regulator will not accept, review, or approve new applications for gas station development while the moratorium remains in force.
The regulator explained that the suspension will allow officials to carry out a comprehensive review of existing compliance requirements, particularly regarding the safe location of gas stations near public facilities such as residential areas, schools, religious centres, health institutions, swamps, right-of-ways and entertainment centres.
NPRA also warned that any individual or company that violates the directive by continuing construction will be considered to be acting illegally and will face enforcement actions.
The Authority stressed that the measure is in the public interest and called on construction companies, oil marketing firms and dealers to cooperate fully with the directive to avoid sanctions.
Officials said the review exercise will help strengthen regulation within the petroleum sector and ensure that fuel stations across the country operate within approved safety and environmental standards.
