Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Petroleum Retailers Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria, PETROAN, has directed its members to remain operational despite mounting frustrations over unpaid bridging claims amounting to N100 billion.
Instead of resorting to a shutdown, the association has advocated for dialogue with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, NMDPRA, to resolve the issue.
Following an emergency National Executive Meeting, PETROAN in a statement signed by its National Public Relations Officer, Dr Joseph Obele, emphasized that closing operations would lead to widespread fuel scarcity, economic disruption, and hardship for Nigerians.
“We understand the concerns of our members, but a shutdown is not the solution. Dialogue remains the best approach to resolving these claims,” PETROAN said.
The association in the statement reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful negotiations, in line with the resolution reached at the last stakeholders’ meeting chaired by the Minister of State for Petroleum, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri.
“Through dialogue, we can find mutually beneficial solutions, build trust, and prevent disruptions in the downstream petroleum sector,” PETROAN stated.
The association also urged the government to expedite the payment of outstanding claims to ease the financial burden on fuel retailers.
“We commend President Bola Tinubu’s ongoing petroleum sector reforms and encourage all stakeholders to support these efforts rather than undermine them,” PETROAN added.
Under the leadership of National President Dr. Billy Gillis Harry, PETROAN reassured its members of continued engagement with NMDPRA and other relevant authorities to secure a lasting resolution.
“We urge our members to remain calm and law-abiding while we work towards a sustainable solution,” Obele concluded in the statement.
