The petrol crisis in Niger eases as Nigeria supplies fuel after Niger requests assistance. The number of petrol tankers moving from Nigeria to Niger has increased, resulting in a significant price drop. The agreement aims to use fuel supply as leverage in ongoing diplomatic negotiations. Residents have noted improvements in fuel availability and express gratitude towards Nigeria’s support.
The petrol crisis in Niger Republic has begun to ease as supply from Nigeria has resumed. Reports indicate that numerous petrol trucks have started transporting fuel from Nigeria to the neighbouring country. This follows Niger Republic’s appeal for assistance amidst a significant fuel shortage, which was first reported on March 16, 2025. The request was made despite previous diplomatic tensions between the nations.
A delegation from Niger’s military junta visited Abuja to negotiate with Nigerian officials, resulting in the agreement to dispatch 300 trucks of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). According to a senior Nigerian government official, this arrangement aims to leverage the fuel supply as a “strategic bargaining tool” in ongoing discussions with Niger. The source expressed optimism that it would foster Niger’s reintegration into ECOWAS given their inadequate resources for food imports.
Residents in border areas have noted the influx of petrol, leading to prices decreasing significantly, from approximately N10,000 per litre to around N5,000 per litre. While the Nigeria Customs Service has not commented on the matter due to its diplomatic sensitivity, multiple security insiders have confirmed these fuel transactions. A resident from Agadez remarked on the marked improvement in availability, despite remaining queues at fuel stations, attributing this change to the Nigerian government’s timely assistance.
Usman Aliyu, a commercial driver between Nigeria and Niger, expressed gratitude for Nigeria’s response during the crisis, emphasizing the strength of their neighboring relationship. Furthermore, the reduction in the price of petrol to about 2,000 CFA was noted as a direct impact of Nigeria’s intervention. A border security officer also verified the ongoing movement of fuel trucks, affirming that proper documentation and security measures are in place for their transit into Niger.
In summary, the petrol crisis in Niger Republic is subsiding owing to the commencement of fuel supplies from Nigeria, following a request made amidst previous diplomatic strains. The agreement has substantially reduced petrol prices, improved fuel availability, and has been met with commendation from residents and officials in Niger. The situation reflects a strengthening of bilateral relationships and a collaborative approach to addressing regional challenges.
Original Source: punchng.com
