FG told to act fast as fuel price rises to ₦1,400 per litre

ActionAid Nigeria has asked the federal government to take urgent steps to reduce the impact of rising fuel prices, which have reached up to ₦1,400 per litre in some parts of the country.

The group said the increase is mainly caused by the ongoing global conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. It warned that many Nigerians are already struggling because of the situation.

In a statement released in Abuja, ActionAid Nigeria’s Country Director, Andrew Mamedu, said that even though the crisis has lasted for over a month, the federal government has not taken enough coordinated action to help citizens.

He explained that global crude oil prices have risen to about $100 per barrel from around $75–$80 before the crisis. However, Nigerians are not benefiting from the higher oil revenue.

ActionAid Nigeria noted a small effort by the Oyo State Government, which introduced a ₦10,000 wage support for workers.

From its findings across different states, petrol prices now range between ₦1,200 and ₦1,400 per litre, while diesel prices are still very high, making things harder for people.

The group said the rise in fuel prices has caused transport fares and food prices to increase, pushing more Nigerians into poverty.

It added that workers, farmers, transport operators, students, and small business owners are the most affected. Many small businesses are reducing operations or shutting down because of high costs.

Households are also facing serious challenges, such as skipping meals, missing school due to transport costs, and borrowing money to survive. Some people are also turning to unsafe transport options and informal fuel sources.

Mamedu described the situation as unacceptable, saying Nigerians should not suffer from global oil price increases without government support.

He pointed out that countries like Thailand and Indonesia have taken steps to protect their citizens by controlling fuel prices, offering subsidies, and managing energy use.

ActionAid Nigeria urged the federal government to introduce measures such as cash transfers, temporary fuel subsidies, and support for public transport.

It also advised reducing taxes and transport costs linked to fuel prices, protecting supply chains, and improving the crude-for-naira policy to stabilise fuel supply.

The group further called on private companies to support workers with transport assistance, flexible work options, and cost-of-living adjustments. It also urged state and local governments to strengthen support systems for communities.

ActionAid Nigeria concluded that although the global crisis may be beyond Nigeria’s control, the government must act quickly to reduce the hardship faced by citizens.