The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has triggered a sharp energy crisis in Nigeria, with fuel prices surging by approximately 47% over just six weeks as global oil prices climbed above $100 per barrel.

In response, the Dangote Refinery, with a production capacity of around 650 000 barrels per day,  is ramping up output and prioritising domestic supply in an effort to avert looming fuel shortages.

Meanwhile, some analysts are urging the Nigerian government to channel any anticipated windfall from higher oil prices into measures that ease the burden on households and businesses, warning that escalating fuel costs are already worsening economic hardship across the country.

Thami Ngubeni spoke to Channel Africa’s Correspondent in Nigeria, Jonathan James Lyangohn.