The Lagos State branch of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has expressed deep concern over the recent spike in petrol prices, warning that the increase could lead to a rise in depression and hospital admissions across the country.
In a statement released on Thursday, the NMA called on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to address the issue urgently and take steps to end Nigeria’s dependence on fuel imports.
Earlier this week, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) raised the price of petrol to N855 per litre and above at its retail outlets nationwide. This hike has led some independent marketers to sell petrol at even higher prices, ranging from N1,200 to N1,300 per litre in some states.
The NMA’s Lagos State chairman, Dr. Saheed Kehinde, highlighted the severe impact this price hike is having on Nigerians, including medical professionals. He noted that many doctors and dentists are now being forced to consider leaving the country due to the worsening economic situation.
“The hike in PMS prices comes at a time when Nigerians are enduring unprecedented economic pressures,” Dr. Kehinde said. “The impact of this decision will ripple across all sectors, further deepening the mental, social, and emotional stress that citizens are currently experiencing.”
He warned that the sudden increase in fuel prices could have dire consequences for the nation’s health, contributing to higher rates of poverty, depression, stress-related medical conditions, social unrest, and even mortality. The NMA stressed the urgency of reversing the price hike to prevent further hardship.
Dr. Kehinde urged President Tinubu to “urgently intervene in this matter. We urge him to prioritize the welfare of Nigerians by immediately reversing the price hike of PMS to its previous level.”
He also emphasized the need for Nigeria to become self-sufficient in producing petroleum products, including petrol. “It is high time Nigeria moved towards self-sufficiency in the production of petroleum products, including PMS. We urge the government to expedite efforts to end the importation of petrol and focus on revitalizing our local refineries,” Dr. Kehinde added.
The NMA’s statement reflects growing concern among Nigerians over the rising cost of living, which has been exacerbated by the removal of petrol subsidies, soaring inflation, insecurity, high electricity tariffs, and excessive taxation. The association’s call for action underscores the urgent need for solutions to these pressing issues.