Amidst the deepening fuel scarcity crisis nationwide, the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has announced plans to hold an official meeting of its National Executive Council on Monday to address the pressing issue.
In an exclusive interview on Saturday, Hammed Fashola, the National President of IPMAN, underscored the urgency of the meeting in light of the continued fuel scarcity despite recent efforts by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).
Fashola revealed that the NNPC had taken proactive steps by releasing reserves from all existing depots across the country on Friday to alleviate the long queues at fuel stations. Additionally, the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria confirmed the receipt and distribution of 300 million litres of fuel from eight vessels during the week.
Despite these interventions, Fashola emphasized the need to assess the effectiveness of these measures during Monday’s meeting. He reiterated IPMAN’s commitment to collaborating with the NNPC to address the scarcity and ensure adequate fuel supply nationwide.
The agenda for the meeting will include evaluating the current situation, reviewing past interventions, and devising strategies to mitigate the scarcity. Fashola urged the public to refrain from panic buying and assured that sustained collaboration between IPMAN and the NNPC would lead to a resolution of the crisis.
Meanwhile, the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria held a meeting on Saturday to discuss the fuel scarcity issue. Dr. Billy Gilly-Harry, representing the association, emphasized the importance of preventing hoarding and ensuring equitable distribution of petroleum products, particularly in rural areas.
Gilly-Harry highlighted the positive outcomes of collaborative efforts between oil marketers and the NNPC, noting significant improvements in fuel availability, especially in Abuja. He expressed confidence that ongoing initiatives would yield lasting solutions and called on all stakeholders to work together towards resolving the crisis.
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