The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has issued a stern warning to refineries, depot operators, and other players in the midstream and downstream oil and gas sectors over poor waste management practices.
In a memo dated April 3, 2025, with reference number NMDPRA/HQ/HSEC.02/2025/181, the regulator reminded all licensed waste management service providers and operators of their legal and environmental obligations. The memo, signed by Mustapha Lamorde on behalf of the Chief Executive, Farouk Ahmed, emphasized the urgent need to address waste disposal concerns across the industry.
“As we navigate the complexities of the oil and gas sector, proper waste management remains a top priority,” the memo read. “Beyond its importance to environmental sustainability, it is vital for public health and the long-term success of industry operations.”
The NMDPRA acknowledged the significant contributions of the midstream and downstream sectors to Nigeria’s economy and energy supply but pointed out that these operations also generate various forms of waste—liquid, solid, chemical, and gaseous emissions—which, if mismanaged, pose serious risks to the environment and public health.
Referencing Section 31(c) of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 and Part V(2) of the Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Environmental Regulation (MDER) 2023, the Authority reiterated that all licensees are responsible for managing their waste “from cradle to grave” in line with their approved Waste Management Plans (WMP).
To reinforce its stance, the NMDPRA has launched Strategic Waste Management Initiatives aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of oil and gas operations. Operators have been directed to:
- Conduct comprehensive waste audits to identify waste types and volumes at each operational stage.
- Implement waste segregation practices to avoid cross-contamination and store waste safely before treatment at NMDPRA-approved facilities.
- Embrace waste minimization strategies, including process optimization, reduced chemical usage, and advanced technologies.
- Adopt innovative wastewater treatment solutions and promote recycling and reuse to limit disposal volumes.
The memo also calls for robust monitoring and feedback systems to track the effectiveness of waste handling procedures. All incoming waste must be tested before and after treatment for key environmental parameters, while the storage of both treated and untreated waste must prevent environmental exposure.
Operators are required to submit quarterly waste manifests for all waste received and treated. Additionally, all secondary waste must be properly accounted for and disposed of in NMDPRA-accredited engineered landfills.
The NMDPRA concluded by stressing that effective waste management is a collective responsibility. “Through collaborative action and adherence to best practices, we can significantly reduce the environmental and health impacts of our industry, paving the way for a safer and more sustainable future,” it stated.
