The Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria has urged the federal government to fast-track policy and structural reforms in the downstream petroleum sector.

Clement Isong, executive secretary of MEMAN, said on Thursday in Lagos that this would unlock investment, deepen competition and stabilise fuel distribution.

He said this would also align policies strictly with the Petroleum Industry Act and deliver a transparent, efficient, and investor-friendly market.

Mr Isong said MEMAN was pushing for reforms that guarantee a level playing field for all operators, strengthen efficiency across the value chain and entrench global best-practice health, safety and environmental standards.

He stressed that clear timelines and predictable regulatory oversight were essential to restoring investor confidence and improving the resilience of Nigeria’s energy distribution system.

“PIA-consistent policy outcomes are critical if Nigeria is to attract long-term investment and protect end users. Certainty, transparency and coordination are the foundations of a downstream market that works for both investors and consumers,” Mr Isong said.

He said this year, MEMAN’s priorities would centre on stronger stakeholder coordination, deliberate management of ongoing sector transitions and full operationalisation of the PIA.

According to him, key actions include clarifying leadership and coordination roles, sequencing reforms to minimise disruptions and ensuring affordability for consumers during the transition.

He said effective implementation of the PIA must translate into a predictable market environment that supports sustainable investment while safeguarding consumer interests.

Reflecting on 2025, Mr Isong identified the convergence of multiple transitions across the downstream value chain as the sector’s biggest challenge.

He explained that regulators, government institutions, operators and consumers were adjusting simultaneously, creating uncertainty and uneven reform outcomes.

“This has been a steep learning curve for the industry,” he said.

Mr Isong added that MEMAN members responded by intensifying stakeholder engagement, making targeted operational adjustments and consistently advocating coordinated and predictable reform implementation.

He expressed optimism that sustained collaboration and policy clarity would position Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector to emerge stronger, more efficient and better equipped to meet the country’s long-term energy needs.

(NAN)