(3 Minutes Read)
The fuel shortage has led to an increase in transportation costs in the country where many people rely on public transportation. Authorities blamed the shortage on supply disruptions due to logistical challenges.
Nigerians are facing severe fuel shortages causing more hardships for millions already struggling in an economic crisis. The fuel shortage has led to an increase in transportation costs in the country where many people rely on public transportation. Authorities blamed the shortage on supply disruptions due to logistical challenges.
Queues leading to gas stations stretched up to 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) in some cities including the national capital, Abuja. Nigeria is one of Africa’s top crude oil producers, but gasoline shortages are common, mostly as a result of frequent strikes and supply disruptions. As on previous occasions, Nigeria’s state oil firm accused fuel companies of exploiting the current situation to maximize profit.
Nigeria relies heavily on imported fuel due to underperforming refineries. The biggest refinery in Africa opened recently in Lagos, Nigeria’s economic hub, and is expected to boost refining capacity. However, the privately owned facility still produces only diesel and aviation fuel. The cost of fuel in many gas stations in Abuja has already jumped by more than 15% from the usual 675 naira (50 cents) per liter. Prices varied in other cities around the country.
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In some parts of Abuja and Lagos, half the roads were filled with traffic jams of private car owners and taxi drivers, including some who had parked near gas stations overnight to buy fuel early.
