Petrol Prices Surge in Abuja as NNPCL Raises Rates

Transportation costs in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of Nigeria are poised to escalate sharply, following a significant hike in the price of petrol by some outlets of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) in Abuja. On Wednesday, it was observed that several NNPCL stations in the capital increased their retail petrol prices to N1,030 per litre, escalating from the previous price of N897 per litre.

This development marks the second increase in the span of a month, resulting in a 14.8 percent rise, equivalent to N133. At the NNPCL mega station positioned in the Central Area, the raised price was evident through firsthand accounts from customers.

One customer, who engaged in conversation with PUNCH Online but chose to remain anonymous, expressed frustration over the sudden price change. “I am very angry right now. I entered this station thinking their price would be better. It was only after I had wasted time in the queue that I was informed by the fuel attendant that the price had risen to N1,030,” the customer lamented.

Confusion among customers was exacerbated by the fact that the station did not display the new prices on either the signboard or the pump meters. Instead, customers became aware of the price change through direct communication from fuel attendants.

In contrast, independent marketers’ stations such as Conoil and Total Energies, located opposite the NNPCL headquarters, were observed selling petrol at N926 per litre. However, these locations were accompanied by extensive queues, reflecting the increased demand as a result of the price disparity at NNPCL stations.

As the situation continues to develop, more details are expected to emerge regarding the implications of the price surge on transportation and other sectors reliant on petrol in Abuja.