Fuel prices in Niger Republic have dropped significantly following the supply of petrol from Nigeria.
This has brought much-needed relief to citizens who had been struggling with an acute fuel shortage.
The crisis, which had driven fuel prices to an all-time high of N10,000 per litre, forced the Nigerien government to turn to Nigeria for assistance.
After a series of diplomatic negotiations, the Nigerian government approved the delivery of 300 trucks of petrol to its northern neighbour.
According to sources familiar with the situation, the deal was designed not only to ease Niger’s fuel crisis but also to strengthen diplomatic relations.
It will also encourage Niger Republic to reconsider its stance on ECOWAS.
“The more Niger depends on us, the more likely they are to rejoin ECOWAS.
“They don’t have the resources to sustain themselves without external support,” a senior Nigerian official revealed.
As a result of Nigeria’s intervention, the cost of petrol in Niger Republic has dropped significantly.
Residents report that fuel, which was selling for 4,800 CFA per litre, now costs around 2,000 CFA.
A resident of Agadez, Faruku Lawali, described the improvement as a major relief.
“The fuel situation has improved, and we are grateful to the Nigerian government for its support.
“This assistance has made a big difference in our daily lives,” he said.
Transport operators, who had been hit hard by the fuel shortage, have also expressed appreciation.
Usman Aliyu, a commercial bus driver, noted, “This crisis has shown that Nigeria and Niger are truly connected. Nigeria’s intervention has helped us a lot, and we can’t thank them enough.”
Despite the lack of official confirmation from the Nigeria Customs Service, security personnel at the Illela border post acknowledged the movement of petrol tankers into Niger Republic.
One officer, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the shipments were being processed with official documentation before crossing the border.
With fuel supplies stabilizing, many in Niger Republic are hopeful that the crisis will soon come to an end.
