The petrol shortage in neighbouring Niger Republic has eased following the supply of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from Nigeria, leading to a significant reduction in pump prices.
Residents of border communities and security sources confirmed that hundreds of petrol tankers have begun transporting fuel from Nigeria to Niger, easing the acute fuel shortage that had gripped the West African nation.
The crisis traces back to March 16, 2025, when Sunday PUNCH reported that Niger Republic had sought Nigeria’s assistance after facing a severe fuel shortage. Despite months of strained diplomatic relations and hostile rhetoric, a delegation of senior officials from Niger’s military junta travelled to Abuja to negotiate with the Nigerian government.
Following the high-level talks, the Nigerian government approved the delivery of 300 trucks of PMS to Niger as part of a strategic diplomatic effort. A senior government official, who spoke anonymously due to the sensitive nature of the matter, described the deal as a “bargaining tool” to encourage Niger’s return to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
“We are not publicising this move because it is part of a broader diplomatic strategy,” the official said. “We hope that by supporting them during this crisis, Niger will gradually realign with ECOWAS. They lack the resources to sustain their population through food imports, so strengthening ties through such assistance could help.”
Reports from border communities confirmed increased petrol shipments to Niger, resulting in a sharp drop in fuel prices. Last week, petrol sold for approximately N10,000 per litre (about 4,800 CFA), but the price has now fallen to around N5,000 per litre (approximately 2,000 CFA).
Although the Nigeria Customs Service declined to comment on the development, citing diplomatic sensitivities, security sources at the border confirmed the movement of fuel tankers.
A resident of Niger, Lawali, expressed gratitude for Nigeria’s intervention, stating that the fuel supply had significantly improved the situation.
“The situation has improved compared to previous weeks. We understand that our leaders met with the Nigerian government, which led to the delivery of the fuel. This support has been crucial, and we deeply appreciate Nigeria for standing by us,” Lawali said.
Usman Aliyu, a commercial bus driver operating between Nigeria and Niger, also praised Nigeria’s support.
“With what Nigeria has done, I now realise that blood is truly thicker than water,” Aliyu said. “A litre of fuel that was selling for N10,000 or 4,800 CFA is now going for about 2,000 CFA, thanks to Nigeria’s intervention. This act of solidarity is highly commendable.”
A security officer at the Illela border, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the supply was part of an official agreement.
“There has been increased movement of fuel tankers from Nigeria to Niger,” the officer said. “They present the necessary documents, and security agents process them before allowing passage.”
The fuel supply from Nigeria has not only stabilised prices in Niger but also reinforced diplomatic ties between the two countries, signalling a potential thaw in relations amidst broader regional challenges.
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