Rising Petrol Prices Force Transport Fare Hikes in Nigeria

Transport fares in Nigeria have risen significantly due to high petrol prices, which exceed N1,400 per litre at some Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) retail outlets. Findings indicate that motorists are paying between N1,400 and N1,470 per litre at various NNPC stations.

Despite the Federal Government's announced fuel discount initiative, many transport operators cannot lower fares due to high fuel costs and vehicle maintenance expenses. Some drivers, like Kalejaye Yusuf, express that balancing fuel expenses with affordable fares for passengers is challenging, as many commuters are also facing rising living costs.

In Ilorin, petrol prices remain high at N1,405 per litre, while in Gombe State, prices are around N1,425 per litre. Commuters, including government worker Nana Ismail, report that the cost of running vehicles has become burdensome.

Additionally, the requirement to use the NNPC mobile application to access discounts has raised concerns about accessibility among motorists, as highlighted by journalist Azeez Arisekola.