Lagos Leads Petrol Distribution in June, Jigawa Records Lowest Supply

Data from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has revealed that Lagos State recorded the highest volume of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) distribution in June 2025, while Jigawa State ranked lowest among all states. The figures, which reflect nationwide fuel distribution patterns, show significant disparities in consumption levels across regions, underscoring differences in population density, economic activity, and transportation demand.

According to the NMDPRA’s latest petrol evacuation and consumption report, Lagos received the largest share of fuel distributed to states in June, a trend consistent with its position as Nigeria’s commercial hub and most populous state. The high volume of PMS supplied to Lagos is linked to its bustling economy, which hosts numerous industries, extensive road transport networks, and millions of daily commuters. The state’s port facilities and distribution depots also make it a strategic hub for fuel inflows before redistribution to other states.

In stark contrast, Jigawa State, located in Nigeria’s North-West region, recorded the lowest PMS distribution in the same month. Analysts attribute the low figures to Jigawa’s relatively smaller population, lower industrial activities, and a less extensive transportation network compared to other states. The state’s largely agrarian economy, which relies more on non-motorised transport in rural areas, also contributes to its reduced petrol demand.

The report indicated that nationwide fuel distribution in June was influenced by a combination of factors, including transportation needs, commercial activities, and the availability of retail outlets. States with larger urban populations and higher vehicle ownership rates tended to record higher fuel consumption. The data also reflected seasonal variations, with increased travel during certain periods putting more pressure on fuel demand in some regions.

Lagos’s dominance in fuel distribution is not new. For years, the state has consistently accounted for a significant share of the country’s petrol consumption due to its economic vibrancy and role as a transit point for goods and services. With major fuel depots, tank farms, and retail stations concentrated in Lagos, the city not only serves local consumers but also functions as a key distribution point to neighbouring states in the South-West.

Fuel marketers and transport operators in Lagos say the high distribution volume aligns with the city’s unrelenting commercial pace. They note that even with fluctuating petrol prices and the removal of subsidies, demand in Lagos remains strong because of its economic activities and dependence on road transport for both goods and passengers.

In Jigawa, however, local dealers explain that demand is relatively modest. The state’s economy is driven by agriculture, with fewer large-scale industrial operations or high-density urban centres that typically drive up fuel consumption. Rural communities rely heavily on motorcycles and bicycles, and in many cases, fuel consumption per household is significantly lower than in metropolitan areas like Lagos.

The NMDPRA’s figures have also sparked discussions about infrastructure and energy diversification. Experts suggest that states with lower fuel consumption should consider expanding renewable energy adoption to meet their limited energy needs efficiently. For high-consumption states like Lagos, there is a growing call for investment in mass transit systems and alternative fuels to ease the strain on petrol demand and reduce emissions.

The disparity between Lagos and Jigawa also highlights the importance of decentralising fuel storage and distribution infrastructure. Some stakeholders argue that excessive reliance on Lagos for fuel supply could expose the country to bottlenecks if disruptions occur at its depots or ports. They recommend developing regional depots and enhancing transportation links to ensure stable fuel supply nationwide.

The NMDPRA maintains that it will continue monitoring distribution trends and working with stakeholders to improve efficiency, transparency, and fair allocation across the country. The agency reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all states, regardless of size or population, have adequate fuel supply to meet their needs.

While Lagos remains at the top of the fuel consumption chart, policymakers are being urged to look beyond distribution figures and consider how to promote energy efficiency and diversify energy sources. For Jigawa, the challenge is not scarcity but ensuring that the existing supply meets the demands of its rural economy while exploring sustainable energy alternatives that align with its development goals.

This fuel distribution pattern for June is a microcosm of Nigeria’s broader economic and infrastructure realities—one where bustling urban centres like Lagos drive massive demand, while rural states like Jigawa operate on much lower consumption levels. The figures also reinforce the need for tailored policies that address the unique energy challenges and opportunities in different regions of the country.