Cooking Gas Prices Surge Above N22,000 in Nigeria

The price of cooking gas in Nigeria has soared, with a 12.5kg cylinder now selling for between N22,000 and N25,000, significantly burdening millions of households already struggling with the rising cost of living. Recent market checks indicate that cooking gas is selling for N1,800 to N2,000 per kilogram in various regions, including Lagos, Ibadan, Abeokuta, Ilorin, and Port Harcourt.

Traders like Idiat Adetayo and Basiru Balogun have expressed alarm over the situation, noting that households are forced to reduce gas usage due to affordability issues. The Nigerian Association of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers (NALPGAM) has warned that the continued increase in cooking gas prices could lead to widespread public dissatisfaction.

Factors contributing to the price rise include high depot prices, supply shortages, and increased operational costs, with market prices for LPG reaching N25.2 million to N26.2 million for 20 metric tons. The situation undermines efforts to promote clean cooking energy alternatives, as families may revert to using firewood and charcoal.