10 Mar 2022 | 03:44 PM UTC
Nigeria: Fuel shortages likely nationwide through late March /update 3
Fuel shortages likely in Nigeria through end of March due to supply disruptions. Flights affected, related protests possible.
Event
Fuel shortages are likely nationwide through the end of March. Supply disruptions have caused spikes in prices, reaching more than N600 per liter, and increased demand at fuel stations, while some stations have temporarily run out of stock. Public transportation services, such as buses, are also affected.
In addition, flight disruptions, including delays and cancellations, have been reported across Nigeria as of March 10. Airline officials attributed the issue to fuel scarcity. The extent of the disruptions remains unclear. Air Peace (P4) and Arik Air (W3) announced March 9 and March 8, respectively, that further flight disruptions are likely over the coming days. International flights may also be disrupted; Air Peace announced that select flights to Dubai (UAE) and Johannesburg (South Africa) will likely be affected. Other airlines operating in Nigeria may face similar disruptions over the coming days.
Related protests denouncing the situation remain possible, notably if fuel shortage, high prices, and delays at gas stations persist. Various transport associations and civil society groups have threatened to embark in strike actions and nationwide protests. Participants could block major road routes. On March 8, protesters affiliated with the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) blocked the Lagos-Ibadan expressway to denounce fuel scarcity, among others things. Officials will likely deploy security personnel to all protest areas. Clashes remain possible.
Context
The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) initially announced Feb. 8 that authorities were forced to remove newly imported stocks due to an unsafe quantity of methanol discovered. In addition, the ongoing hostilities in Ukraine have disrupted cargo ships in the Black Sea, further impacting Nigeria's oil distribution.
Advice
Confirm all flight reservations if flying across and from Nigeria over the coming days. Plan for likely fuel shortages and queues at gas stations. Confirm all ground transport services before travel. Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution. Heed all advice of security personnel.
