In response to the ongoing fuel scarcity affecting parts of Nigeria, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has announced measures to expedite fuel distribution nationwide. Chief Executive Officer Farouk Ahmed revealed that fuel products are being transported by ships to depots across the country to ensure a steady supply.
Speaking to journalists after meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the State House in Abuja, Ahmed explained that recent disruptions in fuel supply were caused by rough seas, which halted ship-to-ship transfer operations, and flooding in Lagos, which impeded truck loading and movement.
Despite these challenges, Ahmed assured that the country currently has a 20-day fuel sufficiency, with 12 days' worth of fuel offshore and eight days onshore. He emphasized that the authority is focused on transferring the offshore stock to onshore depots to alleviate the scarcity.
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The NMDPRA's strategy to transport fuel by ships to various depots nationwide is expected to quickly build up onshore stock and ensure a comfortable supply of fuel. Ahmed highlighted the impact of adverse weather conditions and logistical challenges on fuel distribution but expressed confidence that these measures would bring relief.
"Due to safety concerns, ship-to-ship transfer operations were suspended because of volatile sea conditions. Additionally, flooding in Lagos disrupted truck loading and movement, causing further delays," Ahmed explained. "We have 20 days of fuel sufficiency, and by transferring the offshore stock to onshore depots, we aim to stabilize supply across the country."
This initiative aims to address the fuel scarcity and ensure a reliable supply of fuel to meet the nation's demands, bringing much-needed relief to affected regions.
