States spend N45bn fuelling vehicles, generators in six months

In the first six months of 2026, 31 state governments in Nigeria spent a total of N45.04 billion on fueling motor vehicles, plants, and generators. This represents a 14.35% increase compared to the same period in 2025, when the states spent N39.38 billion. The rising fuel costs are attributed to higher global oil prices, driven by the Middle East conflict and disruptions in shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

Brent crude prices increased from $61 per barrel at the start of 2026 to over $100 during the six-month period. The average monthly fuel expenditure by the states was approximately N248.82 million, or N7.51 billion over the six months. The analysis of the states' budget implementation reports found that the fuel expenditure increase was driven by a rise in both vehicle and plant/generator fuel costs.