Fuel prices have surged sharply in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, with major marketers including the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, MRS Oil Nigeria Plc, and NIPCO Plc raising pump prices to above N1,360 per litre.
According to a report by VANGUARD, checks across filling stations in Abuja show that petrol is now being sold as high as N1,371 per litre, intensifying pressure on motorists and households already grappling with rising living costs.
At several outlets, NIPCO is dispensing petrol at N1,371 per litre, while AYM Shafa sells at N1,370 per litre. NNPC Retail stations have also adjusted their pump price to N1,361 per litre, up from N1,261 recorded just last week. Similarly, MRS filling stations, a partner in the distribution chain linked to the Dangote Refinery, now sell petrol at N1,367 per litre, an increase from N1,270.
Other marketers have followed suit, with Rainoil station in Asaba, Delta State selling at about N1,350 per litre, further reflecting the widespread nature of the hike across the capital city.
The latest increase comes on the heels of recent gantry price adjustments by the Dangote Refinery, which industry watchers say has significantly influenced pump prices nationwide. Within the past three weeks, petrol prices have risen by approximately 55 percent, marking one of the steepest increases in recent times.
Data tracking the price movements show a steady upward trend in March. On March 3, NNPC sold petrol at N975 per litre, while AYM Shafa dispensed at N960. By March 6, prices had jumped to N1,068 and N1,098 per litre respectively. The upward trajectory continued on March 9, with NNPC prices climbing from N1,161 to N1,267 per litre, and AYM Shafa rising from N1,230 to N1,300.
Although there were slight price reductions shortly after, the relief was temporary as petrol prices resumed their upward climb in subsequent days.