Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has renewed calls for a review of Nigeria’s fuel pricing strategy, arguing that government policies should focus on reducing production costs and easing pressure on consumers amid ongoing economic challenges.

In a statement issued on Friday, September 11, 2026, through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku said his proposed intervention in the downstream petroleum sector is aimed at supporting locally refined fuel production rather than returning to the previous import-based subsidy system.

The former vice president criticised what he described as inconsistency in the government’s approach to economic support, questioning why certain businesses receive incentives and concessions while assistance targeted at reducing fuel costs is opposed by the administration.

Atiku said the removal of petrol subsidy has contributed to increased living expenses for households, transport operators, and businesses, adding that Nigerians have continued to bear the impact of higher energy and transportation costs.

He explained that his proposed production subsidy would only apply to fuel refined in Nigeria using locally processed crude, arguing that the measure would not benefit fuel importers or intermediaries but would instead support domestic refining capacity.

The former vice president also responded to concerns around possible price controls on domestic refiners, including Dangote Refinery, saying government support should not force private companies to sell below production costs. He proposed that any additional consumer relief should be transparently funded by the government.

Atiku said the suggested framework would include spending limits, independent monitoring, electronic tracking, transparent pricing systems, and penalties to prevent abuse. He urged the Federal Government to consider the proposal based on its economic impact, insisting that Nigeria can protect refinery investments while working to make petrol more affordable for citizens.