“Fuel subsidy is gone!” These were the words of the President when he was delivering his inauguration speech on May 29th, 2023.
This statement alone led to a mad rush to fuel stations by everyone.
The Federal Government has been subsidizing the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) or petrol for decades— that’s why the price has been between N25 to N185 per litre.
However, with this announcement, it means the government can no longer finance paying to keep fuel at a low price for its citizens.
The removal of fuel subsidies was written into law through the Petroleum Industry Act, but it was expected to kick off at the end of June. So, the announcement by the President caused the inevitable subsidy removal to be quicker than expected.
NNPC has confirmed that the new pump prices for fuel will range between N488 to N550 per litre.
The removal of fuel subsidies in Nigeria has both direct and indirect effects on the startup ecosystem in the country.
Here are some potential impacts of the policy on the startup ecosystem:
1. Increased Operational Costs
Fuel subsidies often result in lower fuel prices. These benefits startups by reducing operational costs.
With the fuel subsidy removal, it is likely that startups will face higher fuel, energy, and transportation expenses, which could put a financial strain on their overall operational expenses.
2. Change in Consumer Spending Habit
The removal of fuel subsidies leads to an increase in the price of fuel, which may result in a reduced amount of disposable income for consumers.
This change in spending patterns can impact startups that rely on consumer spending, especially in industries like e-commerce, retail, and hospitality.
Startups in these sectors may experience a decline in the demand for their products or services.
3. Impact on Logistics and Supply Chain
Most startups depend on efficient logistics and adequate supply chain networks to deliver their products or services.
The increase in fuel prices due to subsidy removal leads to an increase in transportation costs, which directly affects the entire supply chain.
Startups in logistics, delivery services, or e-commerce fulfilment may find it difficult to maintain cost-effective operations.
4. Government Revenue Generation
The goal of fuel subsidy removal by the government is to reduce government expenditure and generate more revenue
If these funds are effectively redirected toward other areas such as infrastructure development, education, or entrepreneurship support programs, it could indirectly benefit the startup ecosystem.
For example, increased investment in infrastructure, can improve logistics and create a more conducive environment for startups to operate and strive.
The removal of fuel subsidies in Nigeria has created new challenges for tech startups.
This crisis, however, provides an opportunity for startups to innovate and see how they can adapt to the reality on the ground.
With strategic collaboration and partnerships, startups can find adequate support, which will contribute to the growth and development of the Nigerian tech industry through these trying times.