There is looming concern over possible fuel shortages in Abuja and other parts of Northern Nigeria following the collapse of the Mokwa Bridge in Niger State.
The bridge, which served as a key link between the Southwest and Northern regions, came down after a deadly flood last week. The disaster has claimed over 150 lives according to government sources, though some residents suggest the number could be higher.
The collapse has cut off major transport routes for both people and goods, especially petroleum products that are moved from southern refineries to the northern regions. Many trucks loaded with fuel are now stuck or forced to take much longer routes.
Operators in the fuel industry say this could not have come at a worse time. The Eid al-Adha holidays, which start on Friday, June 6, are just days away, and fuel demand is expected to spike.
An MRS fuel station official in Abuja said their trucks had to return because of the damaged road, which could result in temporary fuel scarcity.
“Most of the petrol trucks are stranded due to the Mokwa Niger State bridge collapse. Honestly, I foresee fuel scarcity in Abuja and some parts of Northern Nigeria,” the official said, adding that prices would remain at N895 per litre during the holiday period.
A Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) staff member supported this view, noting that unless deliveries are redirected from refineries in Port Harcourt or Warri, shortages are possible.
The situation has drawn mixed responses from industry groups. While some warned of delays, others believe fuel supply will not be significantly affected.
Billy Gillis-Harry, National President of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlet Owners Association, said efforts are being made to secure fuel through alternative routes. “Our members will work with 11 PLC and Matrix to get supply from Port Harcourt, Rivers and Delta states,” he said. “There should not be scarcity because we have alternatives.”
However, James Tor, National Secretary of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, is less optimistic. He notes that the bridge collapse is already affecting supply chains. “The federal government needs to be proactive so that the other route is put into use for free vehicular and human movement across the regions,” Tor stated. “The Mokwa Bridge collapse will affect the free flow of supply.”
