The Petroleum Industry Act and Small Refineries: Prospects for Modular Refinery Development in Kebbi State

This study explores the regulatory prospects for modular refinery development in Kebbi State, North West Nigeria, under the framework of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021 and the NMDPRA's modular refinery licensing guidelines. Modular refineries have been proposed as a practical solution to Nigeria's perennial fuel import dependency, and northern states like Kebbi with marginal field access are positioned as potential hosts. Using a descriptive analytical approach, the research reviews NMDPRA modular refinery licence approvals, Kebbi State investment promotion records, and feasibility study reports for three proposed refinery sites in Birnin Kebbi and Zuru. Interviews are conducted with two energy investors and three government officials in Kebbi State. Findings indicate that the regulatory framework, while enabling on paper, is complicated by land access disputes, funding gaps, and limited technical capacity among local promoters. The study recommends targeted NMDPRA capacity-building for northern modular refinery applicants and a state government guarantee scheme for development finance. Keywords: modular refinery, PIA 2021, Kebbi State, NMDPRA, downstream petroleum.