The Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) has issued a stern warning of a potential fuel scarcity looming over the country as it vows to cease the transportation of petroleum products starting next week Monday.
This drastic action is attributed to the exorbitant operating costs faced by its members, particularly the high price of diesel required to power their trucks.
According to NARTO President, Yusuf Othman, the decision to halt operations stems from the unsustainable financial burden placed on their members, with expenses surpassing earnings. Despite numerous appeals and written communications to key stakeholders, including government authorities and oil marketers, no tangible solutions have been forthcoming.
Othman highlighted the persistent disparity between operational costs and freight rates, which have remained unchanged since previous administrations despite significant increases in the cost of living and currency devaluation. The association decried the insufficient compensation provided for transporting petroleum products, particularly with regards to bridging claims, which fail to cover the escalating expenses incurred in vehicle maintenance, fuel procurement, and driver allowances.
Moreover, NARTO underscored the dire state of road infrastructure, citing deteriorating conditions such as potholes and dilapidated bridges that exacerbate operational challenges, increase running costs, and prolong journey times. These issues not only impact the efficiency of fuel transportation but also pose significant safety risks to drivers and other road users.
The looming halt in fuel transportation by NARTO raises concerns about the potential consequences for the Nigerian economy and citizens’ livelihoods. If left unresolved, the situation could lead to disruptions in fuel supply chains, exacerbating existing challenges and potentially triggering widespread fuel shortages across the country.
As the government grapples with addressing these pressing issues, urgent interventions are needed to alleviate the financial burden on transport operators, enhance road infrastructure, and ensure the uninterrupted supply of petroleum products to meet the needs of the Nigerian populace. Failure to take decisive action risks further exacerbating the already precarious situation and jeopardizing the nation’s economic stability.
