Petrol prices across several African countries have surged amid the ongoing conflict involving Israel, the United States and Iran, which has disrupted global oil markets and pushed crude prices above $100 per barrel. The crisis is triggering inflation fears and increasing energy costs across the continent.
Energy analysts say tensions in the Middle East — particularly attacks around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil shipping route — have threatened nearly a fifth of global oil and gas supply, leading to higher fuel prices worldwide.
Across Africa, where many countries rely heavily on imported refined petroleum products, motorists are already feeling the impact of the rising global oil prices.
Petrol Prices Across Selected African Countries
Recent data shows wide variations in pump prices across the continent.
Country Petrol Price (Approx. per litre in Naira equivalent)
Libya ₦34.20
Angola ₦465.98
Algeria ₦508.73
Egypt ₦658.35
Nigeria ₦1,142.85
Sudan ₦997.50
Ethiopia ₦1,202.70
Tunisia ₦1,239.75
Niger ₦1,262.55
Liberia ₦1,296.75
Ivory Coast ₦2,074.80
Cameroon ₦2,121.83
Burkina Faso ₦2,151.75
Seychelles ₦2,158.88
Sierra Leone ₦2,317.05
Senegal ₦2,328.45
Zimbabwe ₦2,436.75
Central African Republic ₦2,651.92
Malawi ₦4,074.00
Libya currently has the cheapest petrol in Africa, largely due to heavy government subsidies, while Malawi records the highest prices due to heavy import dependence and transport costs.
Nigeria and Other African Economies Under Pressure
Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer, is also experiencing rising petrol prices despite its crude production. Pump prices have crossed ₦1,000 per litre in several states, with some locations recording as high as ₦1,250 due to supply disruptions and global price fluctuations.
Experts note that while oil-exporting countries such as Nigeria, Angola and Algeria may benefit from higher crude revenues, the broader economic impact could still be negative because many African nations import refined petroleum products.
Inflation Risks Loom
Central banks and policymakers across Africa warn that the oil shock could derail economic recovery by raising transport costs, food prices and production expenses. Countries such as Kenya, Ethiopia and Zambia are already taking measures to secure fuel supplies and mitigate the economic impact.
With tensions in the Middle East still escalating, analysts warn that prolonged disruptions could push oil prices even higher, further straining African economies and deepening the cost-of-living crisis across the continent.