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Atiku Vows to Restore Fuel Subsidy, Promises Lower Petrol and Transport Costs

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September 12, 2026 | From Spotlight African Reporters

Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has renewed his promise to introduce a production-focused fuel subsidy if elected president, saying the policy would reduce petrol prices, transport fares and the broader cost of living.
Atiku said his proposal is different from Nigeria’s former import-based subsidy regime. According to him, government support would be directed at domestic production and refining, rather than subsidising imported petrol.
He argued that reducing the cost of locally produced fuel would have a wider impact on the economy by lowering transportation expenses, food distribution costs and operating costs for businesses.
Atiku said his objective is to ensure that Nigerians spend less on fuel and transportation while retaining more money for household needs. 

The former vice president has also criticised the removal of the petrol subsidy under President Bola Tinubu, arguing that higher fuel prices have contributed to rising transport and food costs and increased pressure on households and businesses.

He has stressed that his proposed intervention would be tied to Nigerian production, with safeguards such as fiscal limits, monitoring and transparent pricing to prevent abuse.
The proposal has generated controversy, with the Federal Government questioning the potential financial burden of restoring subsidy, while Atiku maintains that government intervention should be used to make domestic production more affordable and protect consumers. 

Atiku's position has now become a major economic issue ahead of the 2027 presidential election, particularly as Nigerians continue to grapple with the high cost of fuel, transportation and essential commodities.

From Spotlight African Reporters

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