The soaring cost of fuel is reshaping daily life for millions of Nigerians, leaving public transport operators and commuters grappling with harsh realities. “Fuel money,” once a manageable expense, has become a heavy burden, creating ripple effects across the economy and deepening the struggle for survival.
The Human Cost of Rising Fuel Prices
In Lagos, the bustling hub of Nigeria’s transport network, commercial bus drivers like Mr. Adewale Adeshina wake up every day with a singular worry: how to make ends meet.
“I used to spend ₦8,000 a day on fuel. Now it’s ₦18,000 or more,” Adewale lamented as he adjusted his bus schedule to cut costs.
“Passengers complain about higher fares, but what choice do I have? If I don’t increase fares, I can’t feed my family.”
This struggle is echoed by commuters who now find themselves making impossible choices. For 28-year-old tailor Sade Omisore, daily transport costs have doubled, forcing her to rework her routine.
“I used to take two buses to my shop,” Sade explained, clutching her bag tightly during a walk to save money.
“Now, I take one and walk the rest of the way. It’s tiring, but there’s no money left after transport.“
Fares on the Rise, Riders on the Decline
Across Nigeria, transport fares have risen sharply since the government removed fuel subsidies in 2024. A bus ride in Lagos that used to cost ₦200 now ranges between ₦400 and ₦600. Intercity transport is even more expensive, with fares rising by as much as 60%.
This surge has left many Nigerians, who live on less than ₦2,000 a day, struggling to afford basic mobility. Some now resort to carpooling, cycling, or even skipping trips altogether, further straining livelihoods and social connections.
Drivers and Operators in Crisis
For drivers and transport operators, the situation is equally dire. Many have cut trips, sold off vehicles, or quit altogether. Diesel, the lifeline of larger buses and trucks, now costs over ₦850 per litre, further squeezing margins.
Mr. Samuel Okon, who owns a small fleet of buses, said:
“Three of my drivers left last month because they couldn’t cope with the stress and low pay. We’re all drowning in costs, and the government doesn’t seem to understand how bad it is.”
The Government’s Response: A Drop in the Ocean?
In an attempt to soften the blow, the federal government rolled out palliative measures, including cash transfers and loans to transport unions. However, many in the sector believe these efforts barely scratch the surface of the crisis.
“The grants help for a week, but what happens after that?” questioned a frustrated union leader in Abuja.
“We need real solutions, like affordable fuel or a proper public transport system.“
The government’s push for compressed natural gas (CNG) as a cheaper and cleaner alternative is gaining traction. Yet, the transition remains slow, with only a fraction of the needed infrastructure in place.
Hope Amid the Struggle
Despite the challenges, there is a glimmer of hope. Some cities are exploring electric buses and expanding their rail networks to ease reliance on fossil fuels. Local communities have also stepped up, creating informal carpool systems and advocating for better policies.
For now, however, Nigerians like Sade and Adewale must navigate an uncertain road, caught between rising costs and diminishing options. Their stories remind us of the resilience of everyday people and the urgent need for transformative action.
“It’s hard, but we keep moving,” Sade said with a weary smile.
“We have to, because standing still isn’t an option.”
