Despite a significant drop in crude oil prices to $73 per barrel, petrol prices in Nigeria continue to remain high, with consumers hoping for a reduction below N1,000 per litre.

Global oil prices have decreased to levels not seen since before the US-Iran war, leading to expectations for lower petrol prices, according to Daily Trust. Despite this drop, fuel prices in Nigeria continue to exceed N1,000, raising concerns about the slow transmission of global market changes to local consumers and businesses.

Nigerian motorists could see cheaper petrol once the country's domestic refining industry becomes stronger, more competitive and financially sustainable, according to the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). Petrol currently sells at about N1,310 to N1,350 per litre in many parts of Nigeria, after prices rose from previous levels. The regulator's comments link future fuel affordability to the growth and viability of local refining capacity.

Depot prices for Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), or petrol, have decreased across various terminals in Lagos, with Rain Oil leading the reduction by cutting prices by N18 per litre. Additionally, diesel prices have also seen a significant drop, falling by up to N70 per litre. This adjustment in prices comes as petroleum marketers respond to changing supply dynamics in Nigeria's downstream oil market, according to Vanguard Business.

Despite a decline in global oil prices to levels seen before the US-Iran conflict, petrol prices in Nigeria remain high, leading to rising expectations among the public for a decrease in local fuel costs, according to Naija News.

According to Nairametrics, the average retail price of Premium Motor Spirit, or petrol, increased by 55.31% year-on-year, reaching N1,596.25 per litre in May 2026.