In a bid to revitalize the petroleum marketing sector, National Chairman of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Abubakar Shetima Garima, at the weekend, promised a new dawn for Marketers as he embarked on a strategic visit to the Port Harcourt unit.
Garima said his visit aimed to address the long-standing challenges faced by IPMAN members, including delayed product allocation and abandoned filling stations.
To tackle these issues, he unveiled a comprehensive plan to restore normal business operations, promising the availability of the products.
“The Association is one, and I will assure you that this office will be rehabilitated very soon,” Garima assured IPMAN members, emphasizing the unity and strength of the organization.
Elaborating on his plans, Garima explained to newsmen that the temporary closure of the product allocation portal was necessary to clear existing tickets and ensure seamless loading.
He vowed to eliminate delays, stating, “The era of waiting for loading after submitting tickets is over. The only thing we need from you is to cooperate with your Chairmen, give them proper cooperation because, without your cooperation, there would be no achievement.”
Garima also expressed optimism about the imminent rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt refinery, which would significantly impact the availability and affordability of petroleum products nationwide.
“With our extensive retail network, products will be available and affordable, leading to reduced prices,” he noted, adding, “Very soon, the Port Harcourt refinery will start functioning.”
Meanwhile, the Chairman of IPMAN Port Harcourt Unit, Tekena Ikpaki noted that Garima’s visit has sparked hope among IPMAN members in Port Harcourt, who anticipate improved operations and a return to profitability.
He said the historic visit was to pay a courtesy call on the King of Okochiri Kingdom, Ateke Tom, one of the host communities of the Port Harcourt refinery Ikpaki described the visit as “long overdue” and expressed his joy and privilege in introducing the National Chairman to the King.
He said: “I want to say that this visit is already long overdue. But it is a thing of joy today to bring our National Chairman and his national executives here with us to pay this courtesy to our most exalted King, King Ateke Michael Tom.”
He emphasized the unity of IPMAN under Shetima’s leadership, stating, “IPMAN is one body today; there are no branches any longer. This unity is crucial for the association’s progress and success.”