The Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners has instructed all its members to cease petroleum truck loading operations starting Monday, February 19, 2024. 

This decision stems from NARTO’s call for oil marketers to reassess freight rates.

Despite the downstream sector’s deregulation, NARTO asserts that oil marketers have declined their request for rate adjustments. Deregulation relinquishes government control over petroleum product prices, granting private entities autonomy in the sector.

In a letter dated February 15, 2024, addressed to the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NARTO cited economic challenges as the rationale behind their decision to suspend operations.

The association expressed frustration over unsuccessful attempts to negotiate freight rates with relevant industry authorities, including the Major Energy Marketers Association of Nigeria.

NARTO emphasized the necessity for support and understanding from NUPENG and its members amidst the pressing economic realities faced by petroleum truck owners.

Consequently, NARTO’s National Executive Council resolved to halt all petroleum truck loading activities starting February 19, 2024. The association urged petroleum truck drivers, who are NUPENG members, to comply with the directive in the interest of sustaining the petroleum haulage business.

NARTO underscored the impossibility of continuing operations given the prevailing economic conditions in the country.