Following a tumultuous three weeks marked by scarcity, the supply and distribution chain of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, is gradually returning to normalcy.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) attributes the recent scarcity to “logistics” issues.
Recent reports indicate a notable improvement in petrol supply across the nation. The NNPCL has reportedly opened up reserves to facilitate distribution to marketers, a move that has positively impacted the situation.
Abubakar Maigandi, the National President of the Independent Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), expressed optimism about the situation, stating that if the current pace of supply continues, the scarcity could end before the weekend.
Acknowledging the efforts of the NNPCL leadership in swiftly resolving the shortage, Maigandi revealed that IPMAN had advised the NNPCL to tap into reserves across states for distribution, a strategy that appears to be yielding results.
However, amidst the improved supply, reports emerged of some independent marketers selling petrol at inflated prices. While NNPCL retail outlets maintained their prices at N568 per litre in Lagos and N580 per litre in Ogun State, major marketers like Mobil were selling at N605 per litre in Lagos and N800 per litre in Ogun State. Some independent marketers were reportedly charging between N800 and N900 per litre, a practice Maigandi condemned as “exploitative.”
Despite the pricing discrepancies, Maigandi assured that with the current supply trend, excesses would be curbed by the weekend as petrol availability increases.
Observations on the ground revealed a surge in petrol tankers heading to various destinations for distribution. In the Akute, Ogun State, area alone, multiple tankers carrying PMS were spotted en route to filling stations, indicating a concerted effort to alleviate the scarcity.
