Scarcity of Fuel and Hike of Fuel Prices: Surviving the Daily Fuel Drama in Naija
posted on Sep 6, 2024 | 647 likes
If you live in Nigeria, you already know that fuel price hikes are like that one unwanted guest who just won’t leave. Every time we think we’ve caught a break, boom! Another announcement, and the price per litre has gone up again. This not only affects the price of transportation but also sends shockwaves through businesses and everyday life. Whether you're a corporate worker, a business owner, or just someone trying to get by, fuel scarcity and price hikes have become a consistent headache. So how are we all coping with this madness? Let’s dive in, Naija style!
Scarcity of Fuel and Hike of Fuel Prices: Surviving the Daily Fuel Drama in Naija
If you live in Nigeria, you already know that fuel price hikes are like that one unwanted guest who just won’t leave. Every time we think we’ve caught a break, boom! Another announcement, and the price per litre has gone up again. This not only affects the price of transportation but also sends shockwaves through businesses and everyday life. Whether you're a corporate worker, a business owner, or just someone trying to get by, fuel scarcity and price hikes have become a consistent headache. So how are we all coping with this madness? Let’s dive in, Naija style!
The Corporate Worker’s Morning Wahala
Ah, the classic “Lagos Traffic + Fuel Scarcity = No Show.” For corporate workers, rising fuel prices feel like a double blow. You’re already waking up at the crack of dawn to beat traffic, but now, you have to budget for an extra ₦500 for fuel, just to make it to work. And let’s not even talk about the days when there’s no fuel at all. You leave the house, praying your fuel gauge doesn’t betray you. By 7 a.m., every worker on your street is already at the filling station queue, fighting for a chance to get some petrol before the day’s hustle begins.
Imagine getting to work late, tired from the fuel hustle, and your boss asks why you’re not in a good mood. It’s hard to explain that you’ve already fought a battle just to get to the office. Even the HR manager can’t say anything because they’re also stuck in the same boat—or rather, the same fuel-less car.
Business Owners and the Diesel Dilemma
For business owners, especially those that rely on generators (which is basically everyone in Nigeria), the fuel hike is a nightmare. Imagine running a small business and now having to factor in the increased cost of diesel or petrol for your gen. At this point, many business owners are considering opening a fuel-saving prayer circle.
If you’re a shop owner who deals with perishable goods, every hour without fuel is like money evaporating. The “Oh, it’s just small money” mentality is gone because the fuel prices are now hiking faster than a mountain climber.
"Uber/Taxify Drivers Are Not Smiling!"
For those of us who depend on ride-hailing services, we’ve also felt the pinch. It’s like Uber and Bolt drivers got the memo immediately. One minute your ride is ₦1,000; next minute, it’s ₦2,500 for the same distance. (See those guys ehn!) Suddenly, that “AC cool ride” doesn’t feel worth it anymore, and you find yourself considering public transport again—BRT or danfo, anyone? A little bit of Sapa way!
Financial Impact: A Price Hike on Everything!
The domino effect of rising fuel prices doesn’t just stop at the pump. From groceries to delivery services, everything is suddenly more expensive. Food prices, already on the high side, are spiking because transporting goods to market now costs more. A plate of jollof rice at your favorite buka that used to cost ₦500 now feels like luxury at ₦800. And don't even get started on the "urgent 2k" requests. That 2k barely buys a litre of fuel these days.
OKAY TAKE A DEEP BREATH, LETS SURVIVE!
Carpool, Naija Style
If you have colleagues who live in the same area as you, this is the time to come together in solidarity. (keep your beef at the fuel station) Carpooling is a lifesaver. Just find a way to divide the fuel costs so everyone chips in. You’ll save money, and there’s the added bonus of bonding over shared fuel struggles.
Work from Home (If Your Company Allows It)
One silver lining from the pandemic is the introduction of remote work. If your company is flexible, save on fuel costs by working from home a couple of days a week. Just make sure NEPA cooperates, and you’ve got data for Zoom calls and ready for that outlook/teams tone! Haha
Invest in a Fuel-Efficient Car
It may be time to ditch that “big boy” gas-guzzler for something more fuel-efficient. While it may be an investment upfront, in the long run, you’ll spend less on fuel, which is a blessing in these uncertain times.
Go Solar or Use Rechargeable Devices
If your business is suffering because of constant generator usage, it might be time to invest in some solar panels or rechargeable devices. (Its Expensive I know!) Yes, they can be expensive upfront, but over time, you’ll cut down on fuel and generator maintenance costs. You Grab
Budget Smartly for Fuel
With the constant fluctuation in fuel prices, budgeting has never been more important. Keep an eye on current fuel prices and plan ahead. Try to fill up when prices are relatively stable (if that ever happens) or during periods of lesser demand. Delulu is the solulu in Nigerian, but then again we can try.
Public Transport Is Not the Enemy
Sometimes, it’s okay to ditch the car and join the masses on the BRT or danfo. You’ll save on fuel and maybe even pick up some juicy gist during your commute. Just be ready for the occasional “stand-up” struggle. Hahaha We go run am Forget!
Conclusion
The reality of fuel price hikes in Nigeria is one that we can’t avoid. Whether you’re filling up your car to head to the office, running your generator for your business, or just trying to get from point A to point B, rising fuel prices have become a burden we all share. But, like always, Nigerians are adapting with humor, innovation, and sheer willpower. While the struggle is real, these small adjustments can help ease the financial blow—until the next price hike, of course.