TheCable

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) says it recorded 412 fatalities in 244 accidents between 2018 and the first quarter of 2023.

The agency, in a meeting with petroleum products transportation stakeholders in Abuja on Wednesday, said at least one death was recorded every four days during product transportation. 

Lamorde, who was represented by Maijiddah Abdulkadir, north-central regional coordinator, NMDPRA, said petroleum product retail outlets accounted for 39 percent of all accidents and fatalities during the period.

He said this was followed by tankers, refining facilities, and gas facilities, which each accounted for 13 percent, and depot accidents, which represented 11 percent.

Lamorde said the NMDPRA would continue to educate operators on the importance of fully complying with relevant safety laws and regulations as stipulated in the Petroleum Industry Act.

“The NMDPRA has planned to recommence the HSE technical audits; of which the outcome will be used in liaison with other directorates, in the issuance of various licenses,” Lamorde said.

“The HSE technical audit will evaluate the adequacy of the HSE requirements, competency and training of staff engaged by the operators.

“This will no longer be business as usual, it is now safety first. The NMDPRA would ensure that the aspiration of the Federal Government in passing the PIA is achieved.

“The law has provided in clear terms that in the case of negligence by any operator, such operator would be sanctioned accordingly.” 

He added that the aim of the engagement was not necessarily to sanction the operators but to ensure that operations are conducted safely to protect people, property and the environment.