The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has projected that the ongoing fuel scarcity, which is spreading to more states across the country, will persist for at least two more weeks. Despite assurances from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) of adequate stock, IPMAN insists that the scarcity will continue due to various challenges in the supply chain.

Chinedu Ukadike, the Public Relations Officer of IPMAN, attributed the shortage to importation bottlenecks, slow license renewals for marketers by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and maintenance issues at refineries in Europe. He noted that only a fraction of marketers have had their licenses renewed, further exacerbating the scarcity.

Ukadike highlighted the consequences of the scarcity, including increased prices of petroleum products and transportation fares. He urged the NNPC to extend the deadline for license renewals and expedite the process to alleviate the situation.

In response, Olufemi Soneye, Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPC Ltd, expressed optimism that the long queues would clear in the coming days, assuring Nigerians of adequate product supply. However, reports indicate that black market operators are taking advantage of the scarcity, selling petrol at exorbitant prices, and exacerbating the situation for motorists and commuters.

The fuel scarcity has hit various parts of the country, with long queues observed at filling stations and prices skyrocketing on the black market. Motorists and commuters are facing increased financial burdens and uncertainty as the scarcity persists.