NLC Slams Fresh Petrol Price Increase, Urges FG to Boost Crude Supply to Local Refineries

The Nigeria Labour Congress has criticised the latest increase in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit, commonly known as petrol, describing the development as unnecessary and burdensome for Nigerians already facing economic hardship.

Speaking on the issue, the labour union expressed concern over the rising cost of fuel despite Nigeria’s growing domestic refining capacity and improving crude oil production levels. The NLC questioned why more locally produced crude oil is not being made available to domestic refineries to help stabilise fuel prices.

According to the union, the latest adjustment will further worsen living conditions for workers and low-income earners who are already struggling with rising transportation, food, and utility costs.

The reaction followed a recent increase in petrol prices by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery. The refinery raised its ex-depot price by N65 per litre, taking it from N1,200 to N1,265 per litre. The adjustment came shortly after earlier increases, bringing the total rise in fuel prices to N100 per litre within a period of eight days.

The development has led to higher retail prices across the country, with motorists in some southern states paying over N1,300 per litre, while prices in parts of the North have climbed even higher due to transportation and distribution expenses.

The continued rise in fuel prices has reignited public debate over the effectiveness of domestic refining in reducing energy costs. Many Nigerians had expected the commencement of operations at the country’s largest refinery to ease dependence on imported petroleum products and help moderate local fuel prices.

Industry figures indicate that Nigeria’s crude oil production has improved significantly in recent months, while domestic refining capacity has expanded. However, concerns remain over the supply of locally produced crude to refineries and the impact of market forces on fuel pricing.

Labour leaders argue that although fuel prices are now largely determined by market realities following the removal of petrol subsidy, government policies can still influence critical factors such as crude supply, refinery operations, and energy security.

The NLC maintained that ensuring sufficient crude oil allocation to local refineries could help reduce production costs and support efforts to make fuel more affordable for consumers.

As Nigerians continue to grapple with the rising cost of living, the union called on the Federal Government to take practical steps to ensure that the country’s crude resources and refining capacity translate into tangible benefits for citizens.