The Petroleum Retailers Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has instructed its members to refrain from shutting down operations over unpaid N100 billion bridging claims
The Spear News report that the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) on Monday threatened to embark on a nationwide strike over NMDPRA’s non-payment of bridging claims totalling N100 billion.
IPMAN gave NMDPRA seven days to pay the bridging claims to avoid strike action.
Following an emergency national executive meeting on Tuesday, Joseph Obele, PETROAN’s national public relations officer, said the association will pursue dialogue with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to resolve the issue.
“While acknowledging the frustration and concerns of its members regarding the unpaid bridging claims totalling N100 billion, PETROAN firmly believes that a shutdown would have devastating consequences, including fuel scarcity, economic disruption, and hardship for the Nigerian people,” Obele said.
“As resolved in the last stakeholders meeting chaired by Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, the minister of state for petroleum, PETROAN reaffirms its commitment to dialogue rather than industry action.
“The association urges all parties to engage in constructive engagement and good-faith negotiations to resolve the issue.
“Through dialogue, we believe that all parties can identify mutually beneficial solutions, build trust and strengthen relationships, avoid costly and damaging shutdowns, and ensure the continued stability and growth of the downstream petroleum sector.”
Obele said the association commends President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to reform the petroleum sector, promoting transparency, accountability, and economic growth.
“The association encourages all stakeholders to support and encourage these reforms, rather than sabotaging them,” he said.
“Furthermore, we encourage the authorities responsible to facilitate the prompt payment of outstanding bridging claims to our members.
“This will help to alleviate the financial burden on our members and ensure the continued smooth operation of the downstream petroleum sector.”
He asked members to remain calm and law-abiding while PETROAN engages with NMDPRA and other stakeholders to find a lasting solution.
Obele added that the association remains committed to promoting the stability and growth of the downstream petroleum sector through dialogue, cooperation, and innovative solutions.
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