Fuel Scarcity: NNPC Blames Distribution Challenges As Crisis Drags Into Sixth Week

Abuja, Nigeria– Nigeria is currently experiencing its third significant fuel scarcity in 2024, with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) once again attributing the ongoing crisis to “distribution challenges.”

The shortage, which began in early July, has resulted in long queues at filling stations and steep price hikes, affecting motorists and businesses nationwide.

Olufemi Soneye, NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, explained on Sunday that disruptions in berthing at jetties, truck load-outs, and petrol transportation to stations have severely impacted the supply chain.

Earlier statements from NNPCL pointed to the flammability of petroleum products and compliance with Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) regulations—which restrict loading during rainstorms and lightning—as contributing factors.

Despite these assurances, the scarcity shows no signs of easing. In a fresh statement released on Sunday, NNPCL expressed regret over the prolonged crisis.

Soneye acknowledged the “tightness in fuel supply” in parts of Lagos and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), again citing distribution issues as the cause.

He urged motorists to refrain from panic buying, emphasizing that the company is working tirelessly with relevant stakeholders to resolve the situation.

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

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

Meanwhile, independent marketers have reportedly increased pump prices to ₦950 per liter, up from ₦720 per liter before the shortage began.