A potential nationwide fuel scarcity is looming as the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) has ordered its members to suspend tanker loading operations at the Dangote Refinery depots. The move is a protest against the Lagos State Government’s enforcement of the N12,500 E-call up system for trucks along the Lekki-Epe corridor.
In a memo dated June 14, 2025, and signed by NARTO President, Mr. Yusuf Lawal Othman, the association expressed dissatisfaction with the fee structure introduced through a partnership between the Lagos State Government and Call-Up Technologies Limited.
“Despite multiple engagements with authorities, no consensus has been reached. We proposed N2,500 per truck, which we believe is more equitable, but this was rejected,” the memo stated.
Nationwide Fuel Supply at Risk
The association warned that if the issue remains unresolved within 24 to 48 hours, the suspension of tanker loading could cripple fuel distribution nationwide, potentially leading to fuel queues and a surge in pump prices across Nigeria.
The Dangote Refinery, recently commissioned and a critical player in Nigeria’s effort to boost domestic fuel refining capacity, could face serious supply chain disruptions if transporters continue their boycott.
NARTO’s Position: Not Opposed to E-Call Up, Just the Cost
Speaking to Vanguard, Mr. Othman clarified that NARTO supports the E-call up system and efforts to ensure orderliness on the Lekki Port corridor. However, he emphasized that the N12,500 fee per truck is excessive, especially in light of the current economic hardship and fuel pricing pressures.
“We are not against the E-call up itself. We’re for it. But the charge must be reasonable. We proposed N2,500—not a final offer—but a figure that reflects economic realities,” he said.
Operational Impact Focused on Lekki-Epe Corridor
Othman noted that the current suspension of operations is restricted to the Lekki-Epe axis, a key route for petroleum product distribution from the Dangote Refinery and other depots.
“We are engaging with Lagos State Government through all legal and diplomatic channels. The aim is not to disrupt fuel supply, but to ensure a fair, sustainable fee structure that transporters can bear,” Othman added.
E-Call Up System: A Double-Edged Sword
The E-call up system, designed to ease congestion and ensure smoother logistics flow on Lagos roads, has been at the center of tensions between the state government and road transport operators. While the initiative has been praised for bringing order to chaotic port access roads, critics argue the fees are arbitrarily fixed, without due consideration for the fragile state of the petroleum logistics chain.
What Happens Next?
As negotiations continue, Nigerians brace for potential fuel scarcity. Industry observers warn that without a quick resolution, petrol stations may soon run dry, causing ripple effects on transportation costs, inflation, and economic activity.
Why This Matters
The impasse between NARTO and the Lagos State Government poses a serious threat to fuel supply stability in Nigeria. At a time when the country is grappling with economic reform challenges, a disruption in the petroleum distribution network could erode public confidence and trigger widespread hardship.
