Prosper Okoye
Petrol prices in Nigeria have climbed above 1,000 naira per litre in several cities after the Dangote Petroleum Refinery raised its wholesale price, pushing transport costs higher and adding pressure to household budgets already strained by inflation.
The refinery increased its gantry price of Premium Motor Spirit to 995 naira per litre, prompting retail stations across the country to adjust pump prices.
Petrol is now selling between about 1,000 and 1,190 naira per litre depending on location and outlet, according to market checks in several states.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelMotorists, transport operators and small business owners say the new price level is raising the cost of transportation and goods.
Despite the increase, fuel supply has remained steady in many areas, preventing widespread panic buying.
The latest rise in prices comes amid tensions in the Middle East involving Iran, the United States and Israel, which have disrupted global oil markets and pushed crude prices higher.
Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz — a key route for global oil exports — has been affected by security concerns following the escalation of hostilities, leading to reduced tanker movements and fears of supply shortages.
Global benchmark Brent crude has risen above $90 per barrel as the crisis deepens, with analysts warning prices could increase further if tensions persist.
In the Nigerian capital Abuja, petrol is selling between about 1,052 and 1,105 naira per litre at many stations, with fuel readily available.
Commercial drivers on the Federal Secretariat–Asokoro route have raised fares from 400 naira to 700 naira.
“Fuel is now more than 1,000 naira per litre. If we don’t increase fares, we will run at a loss,” one of the drivers said.
In the commercial hub of Lagos, petrol prices reached as high as 1,190 naira per litre at some outlets, while several stations sold the product between 1,005 and 1,039 naira.
Similar price levels were reported in other states including Kaduna State, Rivers State and Edo State, where petrol sold mostly between 1,050 and 1,075 naira per litre.
In Gombe State, prices were even higher, reaching up to about 1,250 naira per litre at some stations.
While fuel remained available in most areas, panic buying was reported in parts of Jigawa State following the price increase.
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Analysts warn that rising petrol prices in Africa’s most populous country often trigger broader economic effects, as higher transport and energy costs push up food prices and production expenses.
With pump prices now exceeding 1,000 naira in several states, many Nigerians fear further increases in the cost of living in the coming months.
Prosper Okoye is a Correspondent and Research Writer at Prime Business Africa, a Nigerian journalist with experience in development reporting, public affairs, and policy-focused storytelling across Africa
