Nigeria is set to witness a major transformation in fuel retailing as the country introduces twenty four hour unmanned fuel stations powered by automated technology. The initiative marks a shift toward digital driven service delivery in the petroleum sector and is expected to improve efficiency safety and customer experience.
Industry stakeholders say the new stations will rely on smart dispensing systems that allow customers to purchase fuel using cards mobile apps and biometric verification without the presence of attendants. The system is designed to reduce long queues eliminate human error and curb fuel theft.
The first phase of the project is being piloted in major cities including Lagos Abuja and Port Harcourt where high traffic volumes often result in congestion at filling stations especially during fuel scarcity periods.
Officials from the downstream petroleum sector explained that unmanned stations are common in several advanced economies and their introduction in Nigeria aligns with global trends in automation and cost efficiency. They added that the technology will also improve accountability in fuel sales since every transaction will be digitally recorded.
Labour unions have however raised concerns about potential job losses as automation replaces human roles. In response regulators say the initiative will create new opportunities in technology maintenance cybersecurity data management and station monitoring.
Security agencies have also been consulted on the rollout with assurances that surveillance systems including cameras alarms and remote monitoring centers will ensure safety at the stations.
Consumers who participated in early trials described the experience as fast and convenient noting that it eliminated delays caused by cash handling and manual processing.
Energy experts believe the move could modernize Nigerias fuel retail industry and reduce inefficiencies that have plagued the sector for decades. They caution however that successful implementation will depend on reliable power supply stable internet connectivity and strong regulatory oversight.
