Nigeria: Fuel crisis continues

Event

Long lines for fuel continued to be reported in certain parts of Nigeria as of Thursday, February 15, amid shortages that have been ongoing since November 2017. Among the areas reportedly most affected are the states of Lagos and Kaduna as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of Abuja. . Some stations have run out of fuel and closed, while others are selling fuel at elevated prices. Transportation fares have also increased in some areas as a consequence. Traffic disruptions associated with the long lines have been reported around affected gas stations.

The cause of the current shortages remains unclear; some accuse the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) of not having enough resources. Others place the blame on black market dealers attempting to paralyze oil distribution to increase prices.

On Thursday, the Minister of State for Petroleum directed the NNPC to resolve the crisis by Sunday. However, continued fuel shortages, long lines at pumping stations, and consequent transportation disruptions are expected across Nigeria, particularly in the abovementioned areas, in the short term.

Context

Fuel shortages are not uncommon in Nigeria. In recent years they have been primarily caused by the inability of fuel importers to buy refined petroleum products. These periodic shortages have impeded commerce and economic growth, leading to widespread power outages among businesses that use petroleum-based generators, air traffic disruptions, and long lines at gas stations. Protests in response to fuel shortages sometimes occur.

Advice

Individuals in Nigeria, particularly in the abovementioned areas, are advised to anticipate increased wait times at fuel stations, to replenish fuel supplies whenever possible, and to allow for additional time for travel in affected areas.

Generally speaking, the security environment in Nigeria is complex and is particularly concerning in the northeast and extreme south of the country due to the presence of armed groups, high crime rates, and the risk of kidnapping. Some Western governments consequently advise against travel to certain areas of the northeast (e.g. states of Borno, Yobe, Gombe, Bauchi, and Jigawa as well as parts of Kano and Adamawa states) and the southern Niger Delta region (e.g. states of Delta, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers). Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel to these areas.