Petrol sales in Nigeria drop sharply as prices rise above N1,350 per litre, forcing motorists to reduce consumption and switch transport options

Petrol sales across Nigeria have dropped sharply as rising fuel prices continue to strain consumers and reshape purchasing behaviour.

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Oil marketers say filling stations that previously sold about 10,000 litres daily now sell between 1,000 and 2,000 litres, while some record as low as 300 litres per day.

The increase in pump prices has forced motorists to adjust consumption patterns, with many now buying just four to five litres at a time.

The price of petrol has risen from about N839 per litre to over N1,350, while diesel now sells above N1,750 per litre.

The increase has been linked partly to rising global oil prices driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East involving the United States, Iran, and Israel.

The National Publicity Secretary of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria IPMAN, Chinedu Ukadike, said consumption has fallen significantly across stations.

“Stations that once sold 10,000 litres are now selling just 1,000–2,000 litres, and some only 300 litres. People are buying less and switching to smaller, more fuel-efficient cars, electric vehicles, tricycles, and other transport options,” he said.

Another oil marketer, Alhaji Isa Muhammad, said the price surge has increased operating costs and reduced profit margins.

He noted that marketers are now adjusting to lower demand and tighter working capital conditions.

Industry operators also blamed the absence of fully functional government-owned refineries for continued instability in domestic fuel pricing.

They argued that improved refinery output could reduce import dependence and help stabilise prices.

Some marketers are now diversifying into alternative energy products and improving operational efficiency to stay afloat.

They are also cutting costs, optimising supply chains, and adjusting pricing strategies in response to reduced demand.

Ukadike added that increased crude oil production and improved refining capacity could position Nigeria to export refined petroleum products in the future.

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The development highlights ongoing pressure in Nigeria’s downstream oil sector as consumers and businesses adjust to sustained fuel price hikes.