The recent surge in fuel prices has left many Lagos residents reeling, forcing them to adopt new strategies to manage the increasing costs of commuting. With petrol prices now exceeding N850 per litre at NNPC stations and as high as N1,100 at other retail outlets, the financial burden is being felt across the board.
For Oluwatosin, a Lagos resident who regularly drives from the Mainland to the Island, the soaring price of petrol has made even small comforts like using his car’s air conditioning an unaffordable luxury. “The truth is, no matter your income, the fuel hike hits everyone’s pocket hard,” he explained. “Fuel prices affect everything—food, transportation, and daily commodities. Personally, my expenses have skyrocketed, cutting deep into my income and savings.”
As fuel prices continue to climb, Lagosians are adopting a variety of strategies to manage the financial strain. While many residents are turning to public transport as a more affordable option, others are employing different tactics such as turning off their car’s air conditioning, cutting down on unnecessary trips, and exploring more fuel-efficient vehicles to mitigate rising expenses.
Public transportation options in Lagos include BRT buses, danfos (yellow buses), Keke Napep (tricycles), Korope (mini buses), ride-hailing services, and the new light rail system. While these options are more affordable, they often come with challenges like overcrowding, long wait times, and security concerns.
Despite these challenges, many residents are finding ways to make public transport work for them. Kingsley, a Lagos lawyer, has seen a significant rise in his fuel expenses since the removal of the fuel subsidy in mid-2023. To cope, he has reduced his trips to the office and now relies on public transport, including Keke Napep and danfo buses. “Public transport has become a little more expensive now, but it’s still cheaper than driving all the time,” he explained.
As fuel prices continue to soar, Lagosians are being forced to get creative with their transportation options. While turning off the AC and exploring public transport may not be the most convenient options, they are necessary measures in the face of rising fuel costs. As Adedapo Segun, Vice President, Downstream at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), recently pointed out, the current petrol price of N897 per litre at NNPC stations is not market reflective and could increase further. This potential hike may push even more car owners to adjust their habits, whether by limiting car use, conserving fuel through simple measures, or switching to public transport.
