The Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria, DAPPMAN, has said the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority’s commitment to competitiveness has contributed to petroleum product price reduction in the country.

The Executive Secretary of DAPPMAN, Olufemi Adewole, disclosed this in a recent statement, lauding the Farouk Ahmed-led NMDPRA reforms in Nigeria’s downstream sector.

DAPPMAN noted that with the regulatory framework of the agency, the Nigerian government has been able to reduce the number of illegal refineries and improve petroleum product quality nationwide.

“The commitment of the NMDPRA to fostering a competitive market, enhancing energy security, and encouraging innovation as the sector responds to unfolding global oil and gas market challenges and opportunities,” he said.

“We have witnessed an unprecedented reduction in illegal refining and improved product quality through the Authority’s enforcement of standards,” he added.

This comes amid mounting calls for Ahmed’s sack as NMDPRA Chief Executive.

Recall that barely a week ago, civil society groups and lawyers stormed the Presidential Villa, the National Assembly, and other places in Abuja, demanding the probe and sack of Ahmed.

Meanwhile, other groups had described protests against Ahmed as sponsored and politically motivated.