Nigeria is currently experiencing its third significant fuel shortage of 2024, with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) attributing the ongoing crisis to “distribution challenges.”
Since the shortage began in early July, motorists and businesses across the country have struggled with long lines and rising fuel prices at filling stations.
On Sunday, NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, highlighted the disruptions in the berthing of tankers at jetties, truck load-outs, and the overall transportation of petrol as key factors affecting the supply chain.
Previously, NNPCL pointed to the flammability of petroleum products and compliance with regulations set by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET), which prohibits loading during thunderstorms, as additional operational hurdles.
Despite these efforts, the scarcity continues, with no clear resolution on the horizon. In a statement issued on Sunday, NNPCL expressed its regret over the ongoing situation.
Soneye further explained that the “tightness in fuel supply” in certain parts of Lagos and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is primarily due to distribution problems.
He also urged motorists to refrain from panic buying, emphasizing that the company is working closely with relevant stakeholders to restore normal fuel supply.
“The NNPC Ltd regrets the tightness in fuel supply seen in some parts of Lagos and the FCT, which is due to distribution challenges,” Soneye stated.
“The company further advises motorists to avoid panic buying as it continues to work around the clock with stakeholders to return to normalcy.”
Meanwhile, reports suggest that independent fuel marketers have increased pump prices to ₦950 per litre, up from ₦720 per litre before the shortage began.
For the latest updates, join our WhatsApp channel here.