A potential nationwide fuel crisis has been averted, as the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) announced on Thursday that it will refrain from strike action while continuing negotiations with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) over unresolved bridging claims.
Earlier this week, IPMAN had issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Nigerian government, demanding the settlement of over N100 billion in outstanding bridging claims. The association had threatened to cease operations if the government failed to address the legacy debts within the stipulated time frame.
In a statement released in Abuja on Thursday, IPMAN’s National Publicity Secretary, Chief Ukadike Chinedu, reassured members that the association’s National Executive Committee (NEC) was actively working to resolve the debt issue. He confirmed that both NMDPRA and the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources had assured IPMAN that payments would be made soon.
Chinedu urged members to remain calm and patient, emphasizing that an upcoming meeting with the NMDPRA would provide further clarity on the situation. He also appealed to members to avoid taking any disruptive actions, including strike measures, while negotiations are ongoing.
“The National Executive Committee, led by Alhaji Abubakar Shettima Maigandi, is fully engaged in resolving these issues swiftly,” Chinedu stated. “We have been in constant communication with the NMDPRA and the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources, and they have assured us that payments will be made in the near future.”
He added, “We ask all members to stay patient as we work towards securing the necessary approvals and payments. We understand the importance of these claims and appreciate your cooperation during this time.”
Chinedu concluded by emphasizing the importance of unity and participation in the upcoming official meeting with the NMDPRA, which is seen as a pivotal moment for further discussions.
IPMAN’s proactive approach in halting any strike actions for the time being has provided a temporary reprieve from a nationwide fuel disruption, with continued talks expected to bring a resolution to the pending claims in the near future.
