According to NMDPRA, deregulation of the downstream sector allows traders to source products from anywhere, whether locally refined or imported from abroad.
The authority stated that marketers have the right to choose their commercial decision, and NMDPRA's responsibility is to ensure consumers receive high-quality products at reasonable prices.
Speaking to reporters at the end of a meeting with local refineries and marketers, NMDPRA's Executive Director for Distribution Systems, Storage and Retail Infrastructure, Ogbugo Ukoha, said the government will continue to encourage support for local refineries, but ultimately the decision will depend on traders.
NMDPRA's reaction follows allegations by Dangote Refinery that it is randomly issuing import permits to traders despite having the capacity to meet local diesel demand.
It also accused marketers of bringing inferior products into the country.