Press Release
12th September 2026
MEMORANDUMÂ Â
TO: The Federal Government of Nigeria
THROUGH: The Relevant Authorities and Stakeholders in the Downstream Petroleum Sector
OFFICE OF THE COORDINATOR,
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIAN STUDENTS (NANS) ZONE B (SOUTH-SOUTH)
The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Zone B, Led by Comr. Osagie Bright Nosa, expresses deep concern over the latest increase in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, and its likely consequences on Nigerian students, families, businesses and the general population.
Reports indicate that the Dangote Petroleum Refinery has increased its petrol gantry price from ₦1,265 to ₦1,350 per litre, representing an increase of ₦85 per litre. This is coming on the heels of several previous upward adjustments in the price of petrol within a short period.
While we recognise the influence of fluctuations in international crude oil prices, supply costs and other market forces on petroleum pricing, the frequency and magnitude of these increases have become a serious source of concern.
IMPACT ON STUDENTS AND NIGERIANS
The latest increase will inevitably have a ripple effect across the economy. Higher petrol prices translate directly into increased transportation costs, higher prices of food and essential commodities, increased operational costs for businesses and greater financial pressure on households.
For Nigerian students in particular, the situation is deeply concerning. Students already contend with rising accommodation costs, feeding expenses, academic materials, transportation and other educational needs. Another increase in fuel prices could make daily transportation to and from campuses significantly more expensive and further increase the cost of living for students.
The situation is equally concerning for students who depend on commercial transportation, campus shuttle services and private generators for electricity and academic activities.
 OUR POSITION
NANS Zone B respectfully calls on the Federal Government and all relevant stakeholders to urgently engage domestic refiners, petroleum marketers and other critical players in the downstream sector to explore measures capable of moderating the impact of the latest increase.
We further call for:
1. Urgent intervention to prevent further arbitrary increases in the pump price of petrol.
2. A transparent review of the petroleum pricing structure, with clear communication to Nigerians on the factors responsible for each adjustment.
3. Greater utilisation of Nigeria’s domestic refining capacity to reduce the country’s exposure to international petroleum market volatility.
4. Consideration of targeted relief measures for students, particularly in the areas of transportation and other essential educational expenses.
5. Strengthened monitoring of petroleum marketers and filling stations to discourage exploitative pricing and artificial scarcity.
6. Continuous engagement with student and youth organisations in the formulation of policies that directly affect the welfare and economic survival of young Nigerians.
CONCLUSION
The leadership of NANS Zone B led by Comrade Osagie Bright Nosa acknowledges the complex realities surrounding petroleum pricing and the broader global energy market. However, we strongly believe that the burden of economic adjustments must not continue to fall disproportionately on ordinary Nigerians, particularly students and young people who represent the future of the country.
We therefore urge the Federal Government to treat this development with the urgency it deserves and to take practical steps towards cushioning its impact on the Nigerian populace.
NANS Zone B remains committed to constructive engagement with government, industry stakeholders and other relevant institutions in the collective pursuit of policies that protect the welfare and interests of Nigerian students.
E-Signed:
Comr. Ajibode Nelson Kehinde
Chief Press Secretary to the Coordinator, NANS Zone B (South-South),
