The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (NNPCL) has explained why fuel scarcity resurfaced nationwide.
Dapo Segun, NNPCL’s Vice President (Downstream), said during a press conference in Abuja that the situation was caused by the impact of recent rains, lightning, and thunderstorms.
He acknowledged the widespread fuel queues, which have forced car owners to endure long wait times and a surge in black market, with fuel prices reaching over N1,000 per litre.
Mr. Segun apologised to Nigerians for the inconvenience, stating that while the corporation does not wish to make excuses, the adverse weather conditions affecting fuel distribution are beyond their control.
He assured the public that NNPCL is taking all necessary steps to manage the situation.
“We apologise to Nigerians for the fuel queues. Many of the challenges we’re facing are outside our control, but we’re doing our best to address them.
“For instance, the recent rains have made the Estragos channel difficult to navigate due to siltation, which has significantly hindered our ability to transport petroleum products, especially PMS, across the country,” Mr. Segun explained.
He also mentioned that lightning and thunderstorms have forced the suspension of fuel discharges both onshore and from tankers, further complicating the distribution process. Additionally, road network issues have posed challenges in transporting fuel to different regions.
Mr. Segun, however, said that the supply tightness observed in Lagos has been addressed, with vessels currently offloading fuel in the city.
He pledged that NNPCL will ensure continuous petroleum products distribution nationwide despite the challenges.
