Nigeria: Fuel shortages likely to continue nationwide through April /update 4

Event

Fuel shortages are likely to continue nationwide through April. Supply disruptions throughout March have prompted increased demand at fuel stations and price hikes reaching more than N600 per liter. Some stations have also run out of stock. The shortages have affected public transportation, including buses. Reports also indicate flight delays and cancellations across Nigeria. The extent of the disruptions remains unclear; Arik Air (W3) continues to experience fuel shortages as of March 30. Other airlines, including Air Peace (P4), may face similar disruptions over the coming days and weeks. Isolated gatherings denouncing the situation have occurred nationwide, including along major roads like the Lagos-Ibadan expressway.

Related protests remain likely, notably if fuel scarcity and high prices persist. Various transport associations and civil society groups have threatened to embark on nationwide strikes and demonstrations. Officials will likely deploy security personnel to any protest locations. Clashes remain possible.

Context

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) initially announced Feb. 8 that authorities had to remove newly imported stocks due to an unsafe quantity of methanol. Additionally, the ongoing hostilities in Ukraine have disrupted cargo ships in the Black Sea, further impacting Nigeria's oil distribution.

Advice

Confirm all flight reservations in Nigeria. Plan for fuel shortages and queues at gas stations. Confirm ground transport services before travel. Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution. Heed the advice of security personnel.