Motorists in Abuja are increasingly avoiding NNPCL retail outlets in favor of competitors that have slashed petrol prices. Station workers reported a significant decline in customer activity on Monday as several private operators adjusted their rates downward.
MRS recently lowered its price by N50, bringing it to N1,210 per litre, while AA Rano and Sharon also implemented cuts of N25 per litre. These adjustments follow the Dangote Refinery’s decision to reduce its supply price to N1,165 per litre. In contrast, NNPCL stations have maintained their rates between N1,299 and N1,310 per litre, leading to a visible slump in sales at those locations.
Staff at NNPCL and other high-priced stations expressed frustration over the lack of customers. While Dangote Refinery trucks have been observed in the city, Chinedu, spokesperson for the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, noted that many retailers may not yet have access to these cheaper supplies. Meanwhile, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority has initiated discussions regarding concerns over anti-competitive pricing in the sector.
