The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has revealed that Nigerians paid significantly more for diesel in April 2026 compared to the same period in 2025. The average retail price of Automotive Gas Oil (diesel) surged to N2,474.69 per litre, marking a 43.67% increase from N1,722.45 recorded in April 2025.
Monthly Price Spike
On a month-on-month basis, the average diesel price rose sharply by 50.16% from N1,648.08 in March 2026. This dramatic increase highlights the volatile nature of energy costs in Nigeria, driven by global market trends and domestic factors.
State-by-State Analysis
Among the states, Niger recorded the highest average diesel price at N2,818.94 per litre, followed by Bayelsa at N2,754.06 and Jigawa at N2,704.76. Other states with high prices include Akwa Ibom (N2,694.22), Kaduna (N2,693.17), and Borno (N2,684.95).
Conversely, Abia State had the lowest average price at N2,180.28 per litre, making it the cheapest for diesel consumption. Kwara and Zamfara followed with N2,192.70 and N2,269.14, respectively.
Top 10 States with Highest Diesel Prices (April 2026)
- Niger – N2,818.94
- Bayelsa – N2,754.06
- Jigawa – N2,704.76
- Akwa Ibom – N2,694.22
- Kaduna – N2,693.17
- Borno – N2,684.95
- Adamawa – N2,655.30
- Ondo – N2,640.10
- Bauchi – N2,603.00
- Anambra – N2,570.56
Top 10 States with Lowest Diesel Prices (April 2026)
- Abia – N2,180.28
- Kwara – N2,192.70
- Zamfara – N2,269.14
- Nasarawa – N2,279.68
- Kogi – N2,309.76
- Ebonyi – N2,337.36
- Cross River – N2,342.41
- Imo – N2,405.59
- Kano – N2,409.34
- Oyo – N2,418.99
Zonal Average Diesel Prices
By geopolitical zone, the North East recorded the highest average diesel price at N2,603.00 per litre, while the North West had the lowest average at N2,409.34. This disparity reflects varying logistics costs and supply chain dynamics across regions.
Dangote Refinery Adjusts Diesel Price
In a related development, Dangote Petroleum Refinery reversed its earlier price reduction, increasing the ex-depot diesel price from N1,600 to N1,700 per litre, effective May 27, 2026. This move dashed hopes of sustained lower costs for businesses and transport operators.
Global Oil Prices Surge
Meanwhile, global oil prices soared after Donald Trump announced a naval blockade targeting Iran, sparking supply disruption fears. Brent crude rose over 8% to trade above $103 per barrel, crossing the $100 threshold for the first time since a previous surge past $111 per barrel.
