The President of the Natural Oil and Gas Suppliers Association of Nigeria, Mr Benneth Korie, has identified inadequate road infrastructure as a key factor contributing to delays in petroleum product distribution.
Korie made this disclosure at a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, according to The Punch.
Korie highlighted the pressing need for improvements in the nation’s road network to boost the efficiency of petroleum deliveries.
Road is very important,” Korie stated, underscoring the significant impact that poor road conditions have on the oil and gas sector’s operational efficiency.
“You will agree with me that roads contribute to the delays in the distribution of petroleum products in this country. It is very important to fix the roads. The major problem we face in the distribution of petroleum products is the roads,” he said.
He called on the government to ensure that funds allocated for road infrastructure projects were effectively utilised.
“Let the government keep to their words. When they say they are awarding contracts for road infrastructure and have paid money, they should make sure the money is paid, not on social media, then the people can hold the contractors accountable,” he said.
The head of NOGASA also spoke about the necessity of reviewing the price of diesel as it affects the price of petrol.
“I always talk about the reduction in the price of diesel. I will give you very simple mathematics,” he said. “If I buy PMS at N600/litre for example and diesel for N1350/litre, if I’m taking it to Maiduguri to sell, don’t expect me to sell that PMS at N650/litre. It’ll go for N750/litre.”
He emphasized that enhancing the petroleum supply chain requires a comprehensive strategy that includes improved road infrastructure.
He urged the Federal Government to give road repairs first priority and make sure contractors are held responsible for completing their work on schedule and to high standards.
Korie also praised the efforts of private sector players like Aliko Dangote, whose new refinery is expected to bolster the industry. He urged that products from the refinery be made accessible to a wide range of stakeholders to ensure balanced distribution across the country.
“To ensure a balanced distribution, I urge that Dangote’s refined products be made available to a broader range of stakeholders, including Nigerian National Petroleum Company Trading, NNPC Retail, Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria, and Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria, Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria.
“Others include the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria and the Natural Oil and Gas Suppliers Association of Nigeria. This inclusivity will facilitate sustainable and widespread distribution nationwide,” Korie said.
