Nigeria’s National Petroleum Co. Ltd. (NNPC) has acknowledged the recent shortage of gasoline at refueling stations in the capital region and other parts of the country, leading to queues and inconvenience for motorists.
However, NNPC has clarified that the shortage is not due to a lack of supply but rather weather-induced logistical challenges that have hampered restocking at the pumps.
The national oil and gas company explained that a recent thunderstorm has disrupted the ship-to-ship transfer of premium motor spirit (PMS), the country’s motor vehicle fuel.
This adverse weather condition has also affected berthing at jetties, truck load-outs, and transportation of products to filling stations, causing disruptions in supply logistics.
In compliance with the regulations set by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and considering the flammability of petroleum products during rainstorms and lightning, the loading of petrol has been impossible, further exacerbating the shortage.
Specifically for Abuja, the truck routes from coastal fuel terminals to the capital city have been flooded, worsening the logistical challenges faced by NNPC.
NNPC is actively working with relevant stakeholders to address these challenges. Loading has already resumed in areas where the weather conditions have improved, and NNPC remains hopeful that the situation will gradually improve in the coming days, ultimately restoring full normalcy. In light of this, the NNPC urges motorists to refrain from panic buying and hoarding fuel.
it has been reported that Nigeria’s fuel debt to gasoline suppliers has soared to $6 billion, doubling since April.
This growing debt is attributed to NNPC’s struggle to bridge the gap between fixed pump prices and international fuel costs.
However, NNPC’s CEO, Mele Kyari, has clarified that the company is seeking a loan to cover normal business operations and dismissed any issues with gasoline payments.
As NNPC diligently works towards resolving the logistical challenges caused by adverse weather conditions, the company remains committed to ensuring a steady supply of gasoline to meet the needs of motorists across Nigeria.
