Motorists Shun NNPCL Stations as Rivals Cut Petrol Prices

Motorists in Abuja have reportedly shifted patronage away from Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) filling stations and other outlets selling petrol at higher prices, as rival marketers reduce their pump rates.

The development followed fresh price cuts by MRS, AA Rano, Sharon, and other filling stations in the Federal Capital Territory.

MRS reduced its petrol price by N50 to N1,210 per litre, while AA Rano, Sharon, and some other marketers cut their prices by about N25 per litre.

The reductions came after Dangote Petroleum Refinery adjusted its petrol pricing, intensifying competition in the downstream market.

At some NNPCL outlets in Gwarinpa, Wuse, and other parts of Abuja, petrol was still selling between N1,299 and N1,310 per litre, significantly above the prices offered by some competing stations.

According to an attendant at an NNPCL station, customer traffic had dropped sharply as motorists opted for cheaper outlets.

“I have hardly sold petrol to four or 10 persons since today. Our customers are complaining about the high fuel price,” the attendant said.

Attendants at Shema and Emedab stations also reported weak patronage.

The development comes amid the Federal Government’s efforts to encourage fairer petrol pricing. In July, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) held talks with Dangote Refinery, marketers, and other stakeholders on reducing petrol prices and improving competition in the downstream sector.

The government had also warned petroleum marketers against profiteering and directed the regulator to ensure that falling international crude prices were reflected in domestic pump prices.

An Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) spokesperson said some marketers may not have received or stocked the latest products from Dangote Refinery, which could partly explain the differences in pump prices.

Meanwhile, Dangote Refinery trucks were sighted at several retail outlets in Abuja, suggesting that distribution of its products to marketers is ongoing.

The widening price gap has increased competition among fuel retailers, with motorists increasingly choosing stations offering cheaper petrol.