Fuel Scarcity: Impending Disaster As Nigerian Petroleum Tanker Drivers Threaten To Stop Lifting Petrol

Fuel scarcity looms as The Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) has announced plans to halt the distribution of petroleum products across the country starting Monday due to escalating operational costs. This decision was revealed in a press release by NARTO’s President, Yusuf Othman, on February 15, 2024.

In the press release, Othman expressed NARTO’s longstanding concerns regarding the soaring diesel prices necessary for fueling their trucks, which transport petroleum products to various distribution points. Despite seeking assistance from relevant authorities, their pleas have gone unanswered.

The statement highlighted, “We extend fraternal greetings from the leadership and members of the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners to your esteemed Union. We find ourselves in a difficult position, needing your support and understanding due to the severe operational challenges faced by petroleum truck owners because of elevated costs in the industry and cost of fuel in the country.”

It continued, “Despite our numerous attempts to engage in discussions for fair and adequate Freight rates with all relevant industry authorities, particularly the Major Energy Marketers Association of Nigeria, our efforts have been met with silence. Consequently, the NARTO National Executive Council (NEC) has made the tough decision to instruct our members to cease making their Petroleum Trucks available for loading activities from Monday, February 19, 2024.”

The statement also called for solidarity and compliance from their employees, the petroleum truck drivers, emphasizing the importance of their cooperation for the sustainability of the petroleum haulage business and to ensure the continuity of service delivery. It concluded, “Given the current economic challenges in the country, it is untenable for us to continue our operations under these conditions.”