By Nelson Adebayo Johnson, Media Consultant
The National Petroleum Regulatory Agency – NPRA – under the leadership of Director General Brima M. Baluwa Koroma has intensified reforms aimed at professionalism, transparency, and investment in Sierra Leone’s downstream petroleum sector.
Mr. Baluwa Koroma assumed office in early July 2025 with a mandate to reposition the Agency in line with the President’s “New Direction” Agenda.
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS IN ONE YEAR
Since taking office, NPRA has recorded major gains:
1. Strengthened Monitoring: Nationwide inspection of filling stations to ensure compliance with quality, safety and measurement standards
2. Consumer Protection: Launch of public complaints mechanisms to report fuel adulteration and pump malpractices
3. Industry Engagement: Regular stakeholder consultations with oil marketing companies, dealers, and transport unions
4. Safety Campaigns: Public sensitization on safe handling and storage of petroleum products
DG BALUWA OUTLINES 3-POINT AGENDA
Speaking on the Agency’s direction, DG Baluwa Koroma said NPRA is fully aligned with government policy to make the downstream sector attractive for investment.
“We are here to support the President’s New Direction Agenda which demands that we place high value on professionalism, compliance and transparency to make our downstream industry a compelling place to invest,” DG Baluwa Koroma stated.
“My leadership will have a relentless focus on three things.
Firstly, we are opening up the market space, and restoring fairness in the industry for all players, which will increase sector efficiency and transparency. Sierra Leone is open for investment and we want to attract investors in our downstream sector.
Secondly, the Government is focusing on initiatives to develop our petroleum industry infrastructure. We are encouraging investors to come to Sierra Leone and look at the possibility of resuscitating our Oil refinery, construction of tank farms across the regions, bulk transportation and retailing. This is to enhance petroleum product security and affordability.
Finally, we want to ensure compliance with our petroleum laws and tax commitments.”
INTERNATIONAL AFFILIATIONS
The National Petroleum Regulatory Agency is a member of the World Petroleum Council – WPC and The Africa Refiners Association – ARA, positioning Sierra Leone to benefit from global best practices in the petroleum industry.
LOOKING AHEAD
NPRA says it will soon roll out a digital tracking system for petroleum products and expand its regional offices to bring services closer to the people.
Industry players have commended DG Baluwa Koroma for his open-door policy and commitment to a fair and transparent regulatory environment.
