Fuel Queues Return as NNPC Blames Distribution Disruptions

Long queues have returned to petrol stations across major cities in Nigeria as the country faces another round of fuel scarcity. The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has blamed the sudden crisis on distribution disruptions caused by logistical issues at key depots.

From Lagos to Abuja, Port Harcourt to Kaduna, frustrated motorists spent hours under the scorching sun hoping to fill their tanks a painful reminder of Nigeria’s recurring fuel challenges, despite being Africa’s top oil producer.

“I’ve been on this queue since 5 a.m., and it’s already past noon,” said Esther Ikenna, a civil servant in Lagos. “This is becoming a normal problem, and we’re tired.”

Also Read: Dream on Hold: Nigeria Air Suspended as New Scandal Rocks Aviation Ministry

The NNPC, in a public statement on Tuesday, acknowledged the scarcity and said loading delays at private depots in Apapa and Ijegun, coupled with bad roads and tanker bottlenecks, have slowed down nationwide distribution.

“Efforts are underway to normalize supply within the next 72 hours,” the company assured. “Our depots are operating 24/7, and we are engaging independent marketers to speed up retail delivery.”

Despite the assurance, black market sales have surged. In parts of Abuja and Enugu, fuel was reportedly sold for as high as ₦900 per litre on Tuesday nearly double the official pump price.

The situation has also begun affecting public transport and small businesses. Commercial drivers have increased fares, while shop owners dependent on petrol generators have slashed operating hours due to fuel unavailability.

“I have customers waiting, but no fuel to power my machines,” lamented Tunde Afolabi, a barber in Ibadan. “This is killing small businesses.”

The resurgence of fuel queues has also triggered political tension. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) have criticized the government for what they describe as “chronic mismanagement” of the petroleum sector, especially after the subsidy removal.

“You cannot remove subsidies and then fail to provide steady supply. This is a betrayal of the people’s trust,” said NLC spokesperson Benson Uduagwu.

Oil and gas analysts say the recurring crises point to structural problems including the absence of functional local refineries and over-reliance on imports. Although the Dangote Refinery has commenced test runs, full-scale supply is still months away from stabilizing the market.

With inflation already high and transportation costs rising again, many Nigerians are bracing for even tougher days ahead unless the fuel supply chain is urgently restored.

Follow us on X @Dobblog1