… applaud and endorse removal of fuel subsidy
Credible oil marketers are waiting for the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) before they adjust fuel pump prices.
This decision by the marketers according to an industry source is because the stocks they are having were sold to them at the old price by NNPCL, and it would be a disservice to the nation if the marketers hurriedly adjust the pump prices upward without hearing from NNPCL.
NNPCL on the other hand, another source told Business Standards is waiting for further directive from Aso Rock before taking the next move.
Meanwhile, the Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria (MOMAN) and Depot and Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) have applauded and endorsed the pronouncement by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on the phase-out of the petrol subsidy regime.
“We appreciate the clarity of policy from the Tinubu administration, a direction that signals a courageous and pragmatic shift in our nation’s economic
Trajectory,” the associations stated in a press stated made available to Business Standards on Tuesday.
They stated that in light of the assurances given by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), they wish to reiterate
that there is no cause for alarm.
“We strongly urge Nigerians to avoid panic buying or stockpiling of petrol as such behaviour not only creates artificial scarcity but also poses a significant safety hazard.”
The NNPCL has assured Nigerians of adequate fuel supply and the NMDPRA is working closely with stakeholders to ensure a seamless transition.
“They are ensuring distribution channels remain uninterrupted, thereby making fuel readily available at all filling stations across the country.”
According to them, the decision to phase out this fuel subsidy regime is not merely a fiscal reform; it is a significant stride toward social justice.
“We are heartened that the administration plans to redirect these substantial funds towards essential public goods such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare. These investments symbolize our shared future, promising considerable, long-term benefits for all Nigerians.”
“We understand the concerns regarding potential price increases. However, we expect marketers to maintain reasonable pricing, as NNPCL remains the sole supplier of the product currently. We anticipate minimal changes regarding distribution costs, considering the cost of the product constitutes 80% of the pump price.”
“We pledge, in collaboration with the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO)
and other crucial stakeholders, to manage these distribution costs diligently to minimize their impact on
the pump price.”
They stated that considering this clarity of policy, they are asking their suppliers to continue supplying products to all legitimate marketers.
“We also urge all stations to remain open and avoid hoarding products. We eagerly await the day when the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, as well as other licensed importers, join the current supplier in a bid to diversify the source of petroleum products and enhance market competition.
“MOMAN and DAPPMAN will maintain an open dialogue with the Federal Government, advocating for stability
in the oil sector during this transitional period. We are prepared to support any measures from the Government that would help cushion the impact on the populace.
We once again laud President Tinubu for his bold vision and stand ready to collaborate with his administration in its effort to promote greater economic equality and prosperity for all Nigerians.”
Olusola Bello
