The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (NNPCL) has explained why fuel scarcity has returned nationally.
Dapo Segun, NNPCL’s Vice President (Downstream), spoke about the situation at a press conference on Tuesday, August 20, at the NNPC Towers in Abuja.
He blamed the recent gasoline scarcity, which has resulted in long lines at gas stations around the country, on the impact of recent rainfall, lightning, and thunderstorms.
He noted the massive fuel lineups, which have caused car owners to endure lengthy wait periods and resulted in an increase in black market activities, with fuel prices exceeding N1,000 per litre.
Mr Segun apologised to Nigerians for the inconvenience, noting that the corporation does not want to make excuses, but the harsh weather circumstances influencing fuel distribution are beyond their control.
He assured the public that NNPCL is taking all necessary measures to address the matter.
He said: “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.”
He also said that lightning and thunderstorms have caused a suspension of fuel flows onshore and from tankers, delaying the distribution procedure even further. Furthermore, road network constraints have caused difficulties in transferring fuel to various places.
However, Mr Segun highlighted that the supply shortage in Lagos has been rectified, with vessels already dumping petroleum in the city.
He assured that NNPCL will leave no stone left to ensure that petroleum products are provided countrywide, notwithstanding the challenges.
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli
