Fuel Scarcity: NNPC Blames Distribution Challenges As Crisis Enters Sixth Week

As the severe petrol shortage in Nigeria extends into its sixth week, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has once again attributed the situation to “distribution challenges.”

This is the third major fuel scarcity episode in 2024, beginning in early July. Initially, the NNPCL explained the shortage as a result of logistics issues involving the transfer of petrol from mother vessels to daughter vessels.

The company cited the disruption of ship-to-ship (STS) transfers due to recent thunderstorms and adverse weather conditions.

These conditions, according to NNPCL, affected berthing at jetties, truck load-outs, and the transportation of petrol to filling stations, disrupting the supply chain.

In a previous statement, the NNPCL highlighted the flammability of petroleum products and compliance with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) regulations, which made it impossible to load petrol during rainstorms and lightning.

However, as the fuel scarcity continues without any sign of resolution, the NNPCL released another statement on Sunday expressing regret over the ongoing crisis.

The company’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, acknowledged the “tightness in fuel supply” in parts of Lagos and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and attributed it to distribution challenges.

He urged motorists to avoid panic buying, assuring that the company is working around the clock with relevant stakeholders to restore normalcy.

Soneye said: “The NNPC Ltd regrets the tightness in fuel supply witnessed in some parts of Lagos and the FCT, which is as a result of distribution challenges.

“The Company further urges motorists to shun panic buying as it is working round the clock with relevant stakeholders to restore normalcy.”

Independent marketers have reportedly raised pump prices to ₦950 per liter, up from ₦720 per liter before the shortage began.