The Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners has urged regulators to implement fair pricing mechanisms to ensure that the transportation of petroleum products remains sustainable and profitable for operators.
The association also called on the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority to prevent monopolistic practices within the midstream and downstream segments of the oil and gas industry.
Industry Concerns Raised at AGM
Speaking at NARTO’s Annual General Meeting in Abuja, the association’s President, Yusuf Othman, said the group would continue to defend the interests of its members.
He commended the Dangote Group for its investment in domestic refining and distribution infrastructure, including the construction of a large-scale refinery and the acquisition of 4,000 trucks to strengthen product distribution nationwide.
According to him, the development is expected to enhance local refining capacity, improve product supply, and generate employment. However, he stressed that transport operators must not be sidelined in the evolving industry structure.
Othman stated that the association would resist any attempt to marginalise independent transporters, adding that NARTO has sustained engagement with regulators and stakeholders to protect its members’ interests.
He further urged the NMDPRA to maintain policies that support sector viability through pricing structures that reflect operational costs and ensure reasonable returns for transporters.
Support for Government Initiatives
Othman acknowledged the Federal Government’s support for the transport sector, particularly through the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Initiative. He also commended ongoing road construction and rehabilitation efforts.
He called on members and road users to comply with traffic regulations, especially approved axle load limits, to preserve federal highways.
At the same time, he appealed to the government to fast-track the completion of ongoing road projects, especially ahead of the rainy season.
Safety and Road Infrastructure
The NARTO president expressed concern over recurring tanker explosions and the resulting loss of lives and property. He urged authorities to intensify public awareness campaigns on the dangers of scooping fuel from accident scenes.
He said the association would continue to prioritise safety through regular sensitisation, advocacy, and training programmes for drivers.
The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Shehu Mohammed, praised the association for fostering dialogue on operational standards and road safety. He emphasised that road safety requires collective responsibility and sustained commitment from all stakeholders.
In addition, the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, represented by the Chairman of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency, Alhaji Musa Babayo, assured transport operators of the administration’s commitment to rehabilitating federal roads across the country.
The meeting underscored growing calls within the industry for regulatory balance, infrastructure improvement, and enhanced safety standards to sustain petroleum product transportation nationwide.