By Amin Kef (Ranger)
As Sierra Leone has started experiencing fuel shortage, NP- Sierra Leone (NP-SL) stands out as the only petroleum marketing company actively supplying fuel to the public. Long queues have reappeared at various Filling Stations, highlighting the scarcity of fuel and leaving citizens in a state of uncertainty.
NP-SL has been operating all its Filling Stations across the country, ensuring smooth sales and providing much-needed relief to frustrated motorists. This development has sparked questions among Sierra Leoneans about the absence of other major fuel companies in the market, with many wondering why these companies have not stepped up to address the pressing need for fuel.
Calls have been made to the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA) and the Government to investigate the cause of the shortage and ensure measures are taken to alleviate the situation. The reliance on a single company for fuel supply has raised concerns about the stability and efficiency of the fuel distribution system in Sierra Leone.
Amid the crisis, NP-SL has proven its resilience and commitment to keeping the nation’s wheels turning. Renowned for its prowess in the petroleum industry, NP-SL has firmly established itself as the premier dealer in the country. The company’s outstanding performance in importing and distributing a diverse range of petroleum products, including petrol, diesel gas, and lubricants, notably Castrol oil, has earned it widespread recognition.
As a wholly indigenous enterprise, NP-SL consistently ensures the timely importation and widespread distribution of premium petroleum products to Filling Stations nationwide, guaranteeing easy accessibility for its valued esteemed customers.
Recently, NP-SL unveiled an innovative pilot phase of the Access and Energy Pass Card, a device that enhances access and efficiency in energy management systems while facilitating the seamless flow of petroleum products across the nation.
The Access and Energy Pass Card is a user-friendly Smart Card offering both online and offline usability, coupled with high-security features to safeguard customer information. It provides instant SMS notifications after every transaction, ensuring transparency and accountability. Customers can conveniently recharge their cards at designated stations or the Head Office, and even reverse transactions if needed. Additionally, stringent security measures are in place, including One-Time Passwords (OTP) for password changes in case of incorrect entries.
During the launch of the pilot phase it was highlighted that there are state-of-the-art security features integrated into the Access and Energy Pass Card with its seamless integration with customers’ mobile numbers, offering real-time transaction updates to empower users.
The new device also benefits for Station Owners, including streamlined financial operations with direct credits to their bank accounts for transactions made through the Access and Energy Pass Card. The new initiative, aptly named “FUBU” (For Us, By Us), stems from NP’s commitment to embracing a cashless future and addressing challenges identified through stakeholder consultations.
The Access and Energy Pass Card promises to usher in a new era of self-service convenience, eliminating the need for pump attendants and empowering customers to fuel their vehicles independently. With its comprehensive features and user-friendly interface, it aims to meet the diverse needs of customers and station managers alike.
As the fuel shortage continues to impact daily life in Sierra Leone, NP-SL’s role as the sole active fuel provider underscores the need for transparency and accountability in the management of fuel resources to prevent such crises from recurring in the future.
