Fuel Scarcity Woes Continue As IPMAN Predicts Additional Two-Week Delay

The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has issued a forecast, stating that the ongoing fuel scarcity in the country will persist for an additional two weeks.

According to Chinedu Ukadike, the Public Relations Officer of IPMAN, the scarcity stems from the unavailability of the product within the country. He highlighted challenges in sourcing the product, attributing them to refinery maintenance in Europe, which has disrupted the international supply chain.

Ukadike pointed out that importation bottlenecks and delays in marketers’ license renewal by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) have exacerbated the shortage. Out of 15,000 marketers, only 1,050 have managed to renew their licenses, creating further hurdles in the supply chain.

NNPC, the sole supplier of petroleum products in Nigeria, has cited logistics and vessel problems as contributing factors to the scarcity. However, assurances have been given by the NNPC Group CEO regarding improvements in the supply chain, with the expectation that normalcy will be restored once vessels arrive.

Addressing the licensing challenges faced by marketers, Ukadike appealed for an extension of the renewal deadline set by NNPC and urged NMDPRA to expedite the release of licenses for those who have completed their processes, while also streamlining the renewal procedures to reduce bottlenecks.

The situation remains critical, with Ukadike expressing hope for a resolution within the coming weeks to alleviate the burden on consumers and stakeholders alike.

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