In response to the escalating nationwide petrol shortage, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has commenced the unloading of 240 million liters of petrol. This significant importation of fuel is aimed at addressing the fuel scarcity currently experienced across the country.
On Monday, five vessels carrying a total of 240 million liters of petrol arrived in Nigeria and began unloading their cargo into five depots strategically located across the country. This development marks a proactive step by the NNPC to alleviate the fuel crisis and ensure the availability of petrol to meet the needs of the populace.
Ayo Cardoso, the South-West Regional Coordinator for the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, confirmed the commencement of the unloading process. He emphasized the ongoing efforts to address the fuel shortage, reassuring the public that measures are being taken to normalize the situation.
“We are doing something about the fuel crisis; very soon it will be over. Vessels are discharging as I am talking to you. What we are concentrating on is to push the NNPC, which is the supplier of last resort, to make sure they wet the entire populace,” Cardoso stated.
He further elaborated on the progress made, stating, “So, we have about five vessels already discharging the product, about 240 million litres are being discharged as I am talking to you right now. We are working round the clock.”
While acknowledging the challenges posed by the fuel shortage, Cardoso assured the public that efforts are underway to restore normalcy. He urged citizens to remain calm and avoid panic buying, emphasizing that the influx of petrol into the depots will help stabilize the situation.
“It takes like one or two weeks to (normalize), but people will keep on panicking, which is not supposed to be. All these kinds of things disrupt the normal way of operations. But with 240 million litres coming in from five vessels discharging to five depots already today, things will get back to normal,” Cardoso reassured.
As the unloading process continues and petrol distribution ramps up, stakeholders are hopeful that the concerted efforts of the NNPC will lead to an alleviation of the fuel scarcity and ensure adequate supply across the country.
