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The House of Representatives have passed strong vote of confidence on the executive vice president of NNPCL, Dr. Mumuni Dagazau over the stability and reforms that have been recorded in the downstream sector.
The lawmakers also cleared the EVP Dangazau, of allegations of money laundering following an investigation by an ad hoc subcommittee constituted to examine petitions submitted by the Coalition for Transparency and Accountability in Nigeria’s Petroleum Sector (CTANPS).
The committee’s findings, following its examination of the petitions and the issues raised therein, informed the decision to dismiss the allegations against the NNPCL executive, bringing further clarity to concerns surrounding his conduct and responsibilities in the petroleum sector.
Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, commended the investigative process, stressing the importance of evidence-based legislative oversight in promoting accountability, transparency and public confidence in the oil and gas industry.
Ugochinyere noted that the downstream petroleum sector remains critical to Nigeria’s economic stability, given its direct impact on fuel availability, distribution, transportation costs and the daily livelihoods of millions of Nigerians.
He emphasised that legislative oversight must remain impartial and guided by verifiable facts, ensuring that legitimate petitions receive thorough consideration while protecting individuals from unsubstantiated allegations.
The lawmaker also acknowledged ongoing initiatives by the NNPCL to strengthen downstream operations, diversify energy supply options and modernise petroleum product distribution infrastructure.
Among these initiatives is the company’s renewed approach to refinery rehabilitation through a technical equity partnership model designed to improve operational efficiency and commercial sustainability. Although the Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna refineries had yet to resume production as of July 2026, the revised rehabilitation strategy represents an effort to address longstanding operational challenges.
The NNPCL has also continued to support the adoption of compressed natural gas (CNG) as an alternative to conventional petrol and diesel. In July 2025, the company handed over 35 CNG-powered hybrid buses to the Presidential Initiative on CNG, reinforcing efforts to expand access to alternative-fuel transportation.
Further demonstrating its commitment to energy diversification and distribution efficiency, the company reported the acquisition of 500 CNG-powered trucks in its 2025 audited performance announcement. The investment reflects an effort to expand gas-powered logistics and create opportunities to improve the efficiency of petroleum product transportation.
In the retail segment, NNPC Retail commissioned its first smart self-service station on Bill Clinton Drive, Abuja, in September 2026. Operating around the clock, the facility integrates conventional fuel dispensing with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), electric-vehicle charging, lubricant services and other customer amenities.
These developments, Ugochinyere noted, underscore the importance of sustained investment, institutional accountability and policy consistency in strengthening the downstream sector.
He stressed, however, that progress must ultimately be measured by tangible improvements in product availability, operational efficiency, affordability and service delivery to Nigerians.
The committee chairman reaffirmed the House of Representatives’ commitment to rigorous oversight of the petroleum industry, noting that such scrutiny remains essential to safeguarding public resources, strengthening institutions and ensuring that operators in the sector discharge their responsibilities in the national interest.
He urged stakeholders to support constructive reforms while allowing relevant institutions to carry out their mandates without undue interference, emphasising that transparency, accountability and respect for due process are indispensable to restoring public confidence in the petroleum industry.
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