The People’s Project Movement (PPM) has raised alarm over the worsening economic hardship across Nigeria, urging the Federal Government to urgently introduce targeted palliative measures to cushion the effects of rising fuel prices and the general cost of living.
In a statement issued on March 13, 2026, the group said many Nigerians are facing severe financial pressure as the cost of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and other petroleum products continues to soar.
“It is both painful and troubling to witness citizens struggling daily to purchase Premium Motor Spirit and other petroleum products at extremely high prices,” the group said.
According to PPM, the rising cost of fuel has placed enormous strain on households, transport operators, small businesses, and the broader economy, worsening the living conditions of the average Nigerian.
The group noted that despite Nigeria’s abundant natural and mineral resources, the country has yet to fully harness its economic potential to improve citizens’ welfare.
“Nigeria is richly endowed with abundant natural and mineral resources. As a nation, we possess enormous economic potential and capacity to provide a higher standard of living for our people,” the statement read.
It stressed that efficient, transparent, and responsible management of the country’s resources could significantly reduce the burden on citizens and expand economic opportunities nationwide.
While avoiding direct criticism of any particular tier of government, the organisation appealed to the Federal Government to urgently roll out practical interventions to support struggling families.
“Without apportioning blame to any specific tier of government, we respectfully appeal to the Federal Government to urgently consider introducing practical and targeted palliative measures that can cushion the prevailing economic hardship facing citizens.”
PPM also acknowledged recent improvements in Nigeria’s domestic refining capacity, expressing hope that ongoing developments in the petroleum sector would eventually lead to more stable fuel prices and improved supply.
“With these developments, Nigerians naturally expect that increased local refining should translate into greater price stability, improved fuel supply, and eventual relief for consumers.”
However, the group warned that global geopolitical tensions continue to expose the vulnerability of economies heavily dependent on external developments.
According to the organisation, Nigeria must strengthen its domestic economic policies, improve energy security, diversify its economy, and build systems capable of protecting citizens from global economic shocks.
The movement also condemned what it described as exploitative practices by some businesses, accusing certain traders of arbitrarily raising prices of goods and services during the economic downturn.
“While businesses must remain viable, deliberately exploiting difficult economic circumstances at the expense of the poor and vulnerable is morally unjustifiable and socially harmful.”
PPM urged leaders at all levels of government to demonstrate compassion and responsibility in addressing the country’s economic challenges.
“Leadership must focus on policies and actions that ease the burdens on citizens, promote economic stability, and restore hope in public institutions.”
The group added that effective governance across all arms and tiers of government would ultimately produce a stronger and more prosperous nation.
“When the President performs effectively, the Governors perform responsibly, the Local Government Chairmen deliver at the grassroots, the Legislatures provide constructive oversight, and the Judiciary upholds justice and the rule of law, the collective outcome will be a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria for all.”
PPM also expressed solidarity with Nigerians facing economic hardship and urged citizens not to lose hope.
“To our fellow Nigerians, we express our heartfelt solidarity during these challenging times. We encourage everyone not to lose hope, but to remain steadfast, resilient, and committed to personal and collective efforts that will contribute to building a better nation.”
The organisation concluded by urging Nigerians to remain united and committed to building a better future for the country.
“Together, through responsible leadership and active citizenship, the Nigeria of our dreams can become a reality.”
