Rivers State University Journal of Public Law

Abstract
The Nigerian downstream petroleum sector is a critical component of the nation’s economy, yet it
grapples with inefficiencies; fuel scarcity, corruption, and management lapses. The paper examined the
Legal Framework for Petroleum Pricing and Deregulation of the Downstream Sector. The authors
explored the need for total deregulation of the downstream sector of the Nigerian petroleum industry
to address inefficiencies in the sector to promote an adequate supply of petroleum products through
regulatory reforms and by making reference to the experiences of other relatively advanced
jurisdictions to strengthen Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector’s laws. The authors analysed the
concept of deregulation and the potential a well-planned and deregulation policy has in influencing the
desired goals of product availability and minimal pump prices. The authors further highlighted the
important role of leadership in the deregulation of the downstream sector of the Nigerian petroleum
industry, arguing that the government establish measures to curb corruption and collusion which might
disparage on the successful deregulation of the downstream sector. The authors also investigate the
necessity for deregulation of the downstream petroleum sector to tackle shortfalls and to enhance
quantities of petroleum commodities in Nigeria. The authors recommend the establishment of an
independent body tasked with monitoring the implementation of anti-corruption policies within the
petroleum sector and the absolute deregulation of the industry to foster private investments.

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