Rising transport costs are causing a significant shift in the way Nigerians commute, as fuel prices continue to soar. The price of petrol has surged 47 percent since the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran led to the closure of key trade routes, rising from N839 per litre to N1,232. Diesel prices have also increased by 65 percent within the same period, from N970 in January to N1,600 in Lagos. As a result, transportation costs for commuters across various cities in Nigeria have skyrocketed, with spending now exceeding N20,000 on a weekly basis for most individuals.
Commuters are being forced to adapt to the rising costs by taking cheaper routes, switching to public transport, and reducing their trips or appointments. A Lagos-based student and content creator, Peniel Williams, has seen her daily routine and income significantly disrupted due to high transport fares. Williams cited a recent trip from Ikorodu to Egbeda where ride-hailing fares rose from about N13,000 to N20,000, after drivers demanded higher payments due to fuel costs.
Business owners are also feeling the pinch, with some adjusting their operations to minimize fuel expenses. Charles Orizu, owner of Amaze Logistics in Enugu, has started prioritizing only essential trips and raising service charges, which often leads to complaints from customers. The rising transport costs are having a ripple effect on the economy, affecting food prices and overall economic activity.
The recent surge in fuel prices has exposed the vulnerability of Nigeria's transportation sector to external shocks. The government's inability to maintain a stable fuel price has left commuters and businesses struggling to cope. As a result, Nigerians are being forced to adapt to a new reality where transportation costs are eating deep into household incomes. The impact is being felt across the economy, with food prices and overall economic activity taking a hit. The government must take concrete steps to address this issue and provide relief to commuters and businesses.
