“THE FUEL SUBSIDY IS GONE”-- These were the words of the newly sworn-in leader of the Nigerian government.
In this blog post, we will delve into the topic of fuel consumption and explore ways to navigate this new era of increased fuel prices. Understanding how your vehicle consumes fuel is essential for optimizing efficiency and minimizing expenses. So, let's dive in and discover practical strategies to make the most of every drop of fuel.
Introduction to Fuel Consumption in the Post-Subsidy Era In Nigeria
On Monday 29 May 2023 during his inaugural speech at the Eagle Square in Abuja, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the newly sworn-in Nigerian leader said the era of subsidy payment on fuel had ended, adding that the 2023 budget made no provision for fuel subsidy and more so, subsidy payment is no longer justifiable.
With this recent event, vehicle owners across the country are now faced with the challenge of managing increased fuel costs. Here, At Ikokuonline, we understand the importance of addressing these issues and providing valuable insights to our readers. whether you are a car owner, a motorcycle rider, or a commuter, the information that is shared here will empower you to make informed decisions and adopt fuel-saving practices that benefit both your wallet and the environment.
BRIEF EXPLANATION OF THE FUEL SUBSIDY REMOVAL IN NIGERIA
The Fuel subsidy in Nigeria, which had been in place since 2007, was officially removed by the new Tinubu-led government on May 29, 2023, the same day he was sworn in. The subsidy was essentially a government policy that aimed to reduce the cost of fuel for consumers by providing financial assistance to petroleum product marketers. This means the government in the past covered a portion (either half or less) of the fuel/petroleum product costs, relieving consumers of the remaining payment burden.
Under the subsidy system, the government paid a certain amount to petroleum product marketers, allowing them to sell fuel at a lower price than the market value. This was done to ease the burden and thereby ensure the availability of affordable fuel.
However, over the years, the fuel subsidy program faced numerous criticism and challenges. According to the government of Nigeria, It became increasingly costly to maintain and sustain it, often leading to large sums of money being allocated to subsidize fuel prices.
According to the newly inaugurated leader of the Nigerian government, "The fuel subsidy is gone". He said this noting that his government would instead channel funds into infrastructure and other areas to strengthen the economy. Just a few hours after this announcement, fuel prices have increased significantly across Nigeria. This change could potentially have or has already had a significant impact on vehicle owners' activities, as well as the prices of goods and services that aren't even related to petroleum, and also the transportation industry as a whole. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals to comprehend the implications of this shift and adjust their fuel consumption habits accordingly. The following sections will explore various strategies to help vehicle owners and commuters to cope with the fuel subsidy removal and navigate the increased fuel costs effectively.
Understanding Fuel Consumption: Factors Influencing Fuel Consumption
Fuel consumption refers to the amount of fuel consumed by a vehicle traveling a certain distance. Several factors influence the fuel consumption of a vehicle, and being aware of these factors can help vehicle owners to optimize their fuel efficiency. The following are some of the factors that influence fuel consumption in vehicles:
Vehicle Type and Size
The type and size of your vehicle play a significant role in fuel consumption. Generally, smaller and lighter vehicles tend to consume less fuel compared to larger and heavier ones. When we say fuel, we also mean diesel-powered engines.
Maintenance and condition of the vehicle
Proper vehicle maintenance is crucial for optimal fuel efficiency. Regular servicing, including oil changes and tune-ups, helps to ensure that your vehicle is in good condition and operates efficiently.
Road Traffic conditions
The condition of roads and traffic patterns affect fuel consumption. Frequent stops, congested traffic, and hilly terrains can lead to higher fuel consumption. Planning efficient routes and avoiding peak traffic hours can help reduce fuel consumption.
Driving Habits and Behavior
One's driving habits and behavior can have a direct impact on fuel consumption. Aggressive driving, such as rapid acceleration and hard braking, can increases fuel usage. Maintaining a smooth and steady driving style can help save fuel.
By understanding these factors, One can make informed decisions that contribute to a reduction in fuel consumption.
EFFICIENT DRIVING TECHNIQUES THAT CAN OPTIMIZE FUEL EFFICIENCY AND CONSUMPTION
1) Smooth Acceleration and Deceleration should be practiced. Avoid sudden acceleration or harsh braking. Gradually accelerate to your desired speed and anticipate traffic to maintain a smooth and steady driving style.
2) Maintaining a steady speed is very important as consistently changing speed consumes more fuel. Whenever possible, use cruise control on highways to maintain a constant speed, resulting in improved fuel efficiency.
3) Avoidance of unnecessary idling is also very important. Turn off the engine if you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute. Idling consumes fuel without any mileage gains, so, it's best to switch off the engine when it's safe to do so.
4) Limiting the use of Air conditioner in the vehicle: Although the use of air conditioning can increase fuel consumption, we can't suggest that you should turn off your AC because, when you do, the window glasses would have to be wounded down for ventilation which will also increase fuel consumption. Optimize its usage when necessary though.
Implementing these efficient driving techniques will not only help you save fuel but also contribute to a smoother and more enjoyable driving experience. By practicing these habits consistently, you can adapt to the new fuel landscape and manage increased fuel costs effectively.
Vehicle Maintenance for Optimal Fuel Efficiency
A regular maintenance practice can ensure that your vehicle operates at its peak performance and uses fuel more efficiently. Consider the following maintenance tips:
- Schedule regular maintenance checks and tune-ups as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.
- Check and replace dirty, clogged Air Filters
- Only use the motor oil recommended by your vehicle manufacturer as high-quality and appropriate viscosity oil can reduce friction and improve engine performance, resulting in better fuel efficiency.
- Keep your tires properly inflated according to the recommended pressure levels. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, causing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel.
- You can remove unnecessary items or cargo from your vehicle to reduce weight, as extra weight can increase fuel consumption.
FUEL-SAVING TECHNOLOGIES AND PRACTICES
In addition to efficient driving techniques and vehicle maintenance, there are various fuel-saving technologies and practices available to futher enhance your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Consider the following options:
Hybrid And Electric Vehicles
In Nigeria, one can still consider investing in Hybrid or electric cars which can combine traditional combustion engines with electric motors. These vehicles offer improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, especially during city driving or stop-and-go traffic.
Ridesharing Options
Explore carpooling or ridesharing opportunities in your area. Sharing rides with others reduces the number of vehicles on the road, leading to less overall fuel consumption and lower transport costs
Public transportation and alternative modes of transport
Consider using public transportation whenever possible. Buses, trains and use of water transportation(where applicable) are more fuel-efficient than individual vehicles. Additionally, alternatives such as cycling or walking within shorter trips are viable options too.
ADAPTING TO FUEL SUBSIDY REMOVAL
In our opinion, we'd advise that you assess how the fuel subsidy removal affects fuel prices in your area. You should stay updated on the current prices and understand the financial implications for your vehicle usage.
You might want to create a budget to manage your fuel expenses effectively. Identify areas where you can cut costs and explore alternative transportation options when feasible.
For public transport commuters, always ask the driver/conductor how much is the new fare to the location you are headed to not minding the fact that you have been traveling to that same location paying a specific transport fare before. This will avert whatever conflict that could break out.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Remember that staying informed about fuel consumption trends and continuously seeking ways to optimize fuel efficiency will enable you to make the most of every drop of fuel in the post-subsidy era.
Thank you for joining us on this journey to understand and navigate fuel consumption in Nigeria. Together, we can embrace a more fuel-efficient future.
As a vehicle owner, don't compromise your car's safety and performance. Shop now for all your diagnosis, car parts, and accessories needs at Ikokuonline, or send us a DM to place an order on 09069186864.
