The Role of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority in Price Regulation: Evidence from Kano State

This study investigates the regulatory effectiveness of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) in stabilising petroleum product prices in Kano State, North West Nigeria. The deregulation of the downstream sector following the PIA 2021 has introduced new pricing dynamics that affect household energy costs and commercial transport across the region. Using a descriptive survey approach, the study collects data from 120 petrol station operators, marketers, and consumers in Kano metropolis. Interview guides and structured questionnaires are the primary instruments of data collection, complemented by a review of NMDPRA regulatory circulars issued between 2022 and 2024. The analysis identifies patterns of non-compliance, price manipulation, and gaps in consumer protection enforcement. The study finds that regulatory capacity in northern Nigeria lags behind that of coastal states, partly due to limited field offices and under-staffed inspection teams. The research recommends decentralised regulatory infrastructure and stronger inter-agency coordination between NMDPRA and state consumer protection bodies. The findings are of immediate relevance to energy policy analysts and public administrators seeking equitable petroleum governance across Nigeria's geopolitical zones. Keywords: NMDPRA, price regulation, downstream petroleum, Kano State, deregulation.