Persistent fuel shortages in Nigeria are intensifying the country’s already strained economic situation, with the state-run oil company admitting financial difficulties as the primary culprit.
Olufemi Soneye, a spokesperson for the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), attributed the ongoing fuel scarcity to financial constraints, blaming the company’s “considerable pressure” for the disruption in supply. This declaration comes just weeks after NNPCL announced a record profit of 3.3 trillion naira.
The fuel crisis has had a significant impact on Nigerians, who rely heavily on petrol and diesel to power their generators due to unreliable public electricity. Despite being a major oil producer, Nigeria imports most of its fuel needs due to limited refining capacity.
The shortages have been exacerbated by recent government reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the liberalization of the naira currency. These measures have driven up inflation and increased the cost of living for many Nigerians.
“The fuel scarcity is really hard,” said Ismael Abdullai, a delivery bike rider in Lagos. “We look, but you always have to look harder to see fuel.”
The shortage has led to long queues at petrol stations, causing traffic congestion and inconvenience for motorists. Many stations have been forced to close due to insufficient supply, leaving drivers scrambling to find fuel.
The government has acknowledged the challenges posed by the fuel crisis but has yet to provide a concrete solution. As the situation continues to unfold, Nigerians are growing increasingly frustrated and concerned about the potential long-term consequences of the fuel shortages.