Abuja transport fares spike as petrol prices soar by 50% overnight
Residents in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are facing higher transport costs after petrol prices surged in recent days. The pump price of fuel has jumped from around N835–N875 per litre to between N1,200 and N1,350, pushing up fares across key routes. Commuters have already reported sharp increases, with many warning of added strain on household finances.
The price hike at petrol stations has triggered immediate fare rises for passengers. Mr Bashir Babandede, a regular commuter, now pays N1,200 for a journey that cost N800 just days ago. Wahab Nasir has seen his fare climb from N700 to N1,000, while civil servant Mrs Grace Anyaoku paid N2,000 for a trip previously priced at N1,500.
Bus drivers like Lekan Adeleke have adjusted their rates in response to the higher fuel costs. The changes have spread quickly across the FCT, though no updated figures exist for similar fare shifts in other major Nigerian cities. Economist Dr Bashir Ishaku highlighted the broader impact of rising fuel prices, noting their knock-on effect on transport and food distribution. He urged the government to expand social protection schemes and upgrade public transport to ease the burden on residents.
The petrol price increase has led to higher fares on multiple routes within the FCT. Commuters are now paying significantly more for daily travel, with some trips costing up to 33% extra. The situation is expected to add further pressure to household budgets unless mitigating measures are introduced.
