An empirical investigation of the regulatory governance practice of Nigeria's downstream petroleum sector.

Tijjani, Ghali Mustapha

Abstract

This thesis contributes to the research literature by reporting the results of an investigation that explores whether regulatory governance practices in Nigerias downstream petroleum sector are fit for purpose. The rationale for the study originated from issues relating to the management of Nigerias downstream petroleum sector that were identified in the extant literature. These issues were of such significance that their resolution could impact positively and materially on Nigerias economy and at the same time the research would fill a gap in the relevant literature. The data for this empirical research were collected using questionnaire and interview instruments and the findings were analysed against a backdrop of the Public Interest Theory of Regulation. The results obtained revealed perceptions of major weaknesses in the regulatory governance practices adopted by Nigerias downstream regulatory agencies namely: the regulatory independence of Nigerias downstream regulators has declined over time; there are flaws in the accountability practices of Nigerias downstream regulators; and there are other related factors such as the absence of openness, poor consultation and a lack of public sensitisation that affect the transparency practices of Nigerias downstream regulators. Interestingly, the results also revealed that although Nigerias downstream regulators appear to possess the required skills to regulate the sector, their talents are not being fully utilised. Recommendations to resolve the weaknesses identified are made which, if properly and effectively implemented, should have a significant positive impact on the Nigerian economy. Such recommendations may also be applicable to those countries with similar regulatory governance challenges.

Citation

TIJJANI, G.M. 2014. An empirical investigation of the regulatory governance practice of Nigeria's downstream petroleum sector. Robert Gordon University, PhD thesis.

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Jan 12, 2015
• Publicly Available Date: Jan 12, 2015
• Keywords: Nigeria; Downstream petroleum sector; Public interest; Theory; Regulatory governance; Regulatory agencies
• Public URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10059/1114
• Contract Date: Jan 12, 2015
• Award Date: Jul 31, 2014