Nigerian Households Turn to Charcoal and Sawdust as Cooking Gas Prices Soar

As cooking gas prices in Nigeria skyrocket, households are reverting to traditional fuel sources like charcoal and sawdust, with prices for gas reaching 1,600-2,000 naira per kilogram. This shift has led to increased costs for families, with small bundles of firewood selling for 800-1,000 naira and 50kg bags of wood charcoal costing 13,000-20,000 naira.

The surge in prices has forced families to seek cheaper alternatives like sawdust. The situation has also affected small businesses, such as a snack seller and a bricklayer, who are struggling with the high costs of fuel.

The market disruption is attributed to temporary supply issues and market exploitation.