The Nigerian government has stepped in to prevent a potential fuel crisis by promising to settle outstanding payments owed to petroleum marketers. The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has confirmed that the government has assured them that the long-overdue N100 billion bridging claims will be paid soon.
This development comes just days after IPMAN warned of a possible nationwide fuel scarcity if the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) failed to clear the debt.
Government Promises Action
According to IPMAN’s National President, Alhaji Abubakar Maigandi, discussions with the NMDPRA and the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources have been productive. He reassured marketers that the government is committed to addressing the issue.
“We have been in talks with the NMDPRA and the petroleum ministry, and they have assured us that the payments will be made soon. While we await the necessary approvals, we urge all our members to remain patient,” Maigandi stated.
He also advised marketers against taking any action, such as strikes, that could disrupt fuel supply across the country.
Why This Matters
This crisis has been brewing for some time. On 24 February 2025, IPMAN issued a seven-day ultimatum to the NMDPRA, demanding immediate payment of the N100 billion bridging claims.
Bridging claims refer to the cost of transporting fuel to various parts of Nigeria to maintain a uniform pump price. These funds are deducted from payments made by marketers but have not been reimbursed, leading to frustration within the sector.
Despite previous promises including one made 40 days ago in the presence of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu the debt remains unpaid.
If the issue is not resolved, it could lead to fuel shortages across the country, affecting businesses, transportation, and daily life.
Marketers Express Frustration
The Chairman of the IPMAN Depot Chairmen Forum, Yahaya Alhasan, expressed his disappointment, saying that marketers have been waiting for over a year for their payments.
“If the NMDPRA does not settle this debt within seven days, we will withdraw our services nationwide,” Alhasan warned.
He added that marketers feel ignored, despite repeated assurances from the authorities.
This isn’t the first time fuel marketers have threatened industrial action over unpaid bridging claims. A similar situation last year led to negotiations, but the payments were never made.
What’s Next?
IPMAN leaders are set to hold another crucial meeting with the NMDPRA soon, where they hope to finalise the payment schedule.
For now, the fuel supply remains stable, but if the government fails to act quickly, Nigeria could face another round of fuel scarcity, long queues at petrol stations, and higher transportation costs.
As the deadline looms, all eyes are on the government to fulfil its promise and prevent another fuel crisis.
