The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) has warned Nigerians not to panic purchase fuel, claiming that the country has ample supply.
Garba Deen Muhammad, Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division, of the NNPC, made the announcement late Sunday.
According to the company, the rapid development of gasoline lineups in sections of Abuja was caused by low loadouts at depots, which often occur during extended public holidays.
It claims to have over 2.5 billion litres of gasoline on hand, enough for more than 43 days.
The remark came in the middle of widespread speculation about a probable gasoline shortage.
“The NNPC Ltd notices the rapid development of gasoline lines in areas of Abuja,” Muhammad said.
“This is quite likely owing to low depot loadouts, which often occur during extended public holidays, in this case, the Sallah celebrations.”
“Another reason leading to the unexpected formation of lineups is higher gasoline purchases, which are also common with returning FCT residents after public vacations.”
“The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), in collaboration with our marketing partners, have taken the required steps to increase loadouts from all depots.”
“We tell all FCT residents, and indeed all Nigerians, that we have enough local supplies and national stock in excess of 2.5 billion litres, enough for more than 43 days.”
“The NNPC Ltd hereby cautions motorists not to panic purchase as supplies are ample and will become more apparent in the coming days.”