Fuel shortage is imminent as petrol tanker drivers cease operations across the country amidst ongoing economic difficulties.
There could soon be a new fuel shortage in Nigeria as the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) announced its nationwide service withdrawal starting Monday, February 19.
This decision stems from the economic challenges brought about by high operational expenses and reduced freight rates. The association cited these high costs as the reason for its action in a letter dated February 15, addressed to the General Secretary of the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas (NUPENG), signed by its national President, Othman Yusuf.
The letter titled,’Operation Withdrawal Notice’
The letter titled ‘Operation Withdrawal Notice’ was sent to the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), the State Security Services (SSS), and the executive secretary of the Major Energy Marketers Association of Nigeria (NEMAN).
NARTO serves as the central organization for all commercial vehicle owners in Nigeria involved in transporting petroleum products, general goods, and passengers within the country and the broader West Africa region.
Get breaking news straight to you phone,
click to join our Whatapp Channel.
NARTO’s decision to suspend operations could severely disrupt the distribution of petrol and diesel across Nigeria, potentially leading to a crisis in the sector.
The association recently expressed concern about the high cost of diesel needed to fuel its trucks for transporting petroleum products nationwide.
In their communication, NARTO stated their inability to sustain operations amidst the current economic conditions in the country.
“We are compelled to seek your union’s support and understanding regarding the significant challenges faced by petroleum truck owners due to high operational costs,” the association conveyed.
“Despite our efforts to negotiate fair freight rates with relevant authorities, particularly the Major Energy Marketers Association of Nigeria, we have not received favorable responses. Therefore, the NARTO National Executive Council (NEC) has decided to instruct all members to cease petroleum truck loading activities effective Monday, February 19, 2024.”
