The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) is experiencing significant financial strain due to escalating costs associated with the supply of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). This situation has raised serious concerns about the future stability of fuel availability in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Sunday by Olufemi Soneye, Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPCL, the company acknowledged mounting pressures related to its substantial debt to petrol suppliers. This financial burden has intensified operational challenges and jeopardised the continuity of fuel supply across the nation.
NNPCL reaffirmed its commitment to its role as the supplier of last resort under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), and pledged to uphold national energy security.
The ongoing scarcity of Premium Motor Spirit has led to widespread frustration among Nigerians, with long queues of motorists reported at filling stations in cities such as Abuja, Kaduna, and Kano, as well as in states like Niger and Adamawa.
Similar issues were observed in April, when petrol shortages in Abuja, Nasarawa, and other northern states led to prolonged scarcity and fuel queues. NNPCL attributed these supply issues to various factors and has called for patience from the public as they address the problem.