Across Nigeria, many citizens are struggling to access Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, as depots face ongoing shortages. Numerous filling stations in Lagos, Abuja, Ogun, and other states have shut down due to the inability to secure fuel supplies.
Investigations revealed that both major and independent marketers are affected, with many stations that previously sold fuel now closed. At the few stations where petrol is available, prices range between ₦1,000 and ₦1,300 per litre.
The scarcity has led to frustration on social media, with Nigerians calling on the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) to explain why the shortage has persisted for over three weeks. Two months ago, the NNPC blamed the scarcity on delays in discharging fuel vessels, but there has been little improvement since then. The Federal Government has yet to address the public on the ongoing crisis.
In Lagos, areas such as Berger, Ogudu, Iyana-Woro, Ikeja, and Apapa had only a few filling stations open on Thursday. In Abuja, queues stretched for up to a kilometre at stations with fuel.
Operators at the Apapa depots reported that supply from the NNPC has been insufficient to meet the rising demand. While vessels are bringing in imported fuel, the quantities are too low to resolve the current crisis. “There is no fuel at the depots. Whatever is being imported is not enough to fight the scarcity. Marketers are getting petrol at ₦990 per litre, which drives up the price. We can’t do anything without supply,” said one operator, who spoke anonymously.
The NNPC, as the sole importer of PMS, is reportedly facing financial constraints, leading to rationing of fuel across the country. The situation is particularly dire in Abuja, with major marketers and even NNPC retail outlets struggling to maintain operations.
Some depots with fuel are prioritising their stations, leaving independent marketers with no access to supplies. The rising cost of petrol is also driving up transportation costs, adding to the cost of living for Nigerians.
As the crisis deepens, many are calling for swift action to address both the fuel supply chain and the high cost of petrol.
