Cooking Gas Crisis in Nigeria: Prices Hit ₦1,500/kg as Marketers Warn of Scarcity and Economic Shock

Nigeria’s cooking gas market is under fresh pressure as marketers raise alarm over worsening scarcity and a sharp increase in prices. The Nigerian Association of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers (NALPGAM) says the cost of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) has surged to more than ₦1,500 per kilogram, sparking concern among consumers already battling high living costs.

According to the association, marketers now purchase 20 metric tonnes of cooking gas at between ₦25.2 million and ₦26.2 million depending on location. This has pushed retail prices even higher, with some dealers selling LPG between ₦1,600 and ₦2,000 per kilogram, a steep jump from previous prices below ₦1,000/kg.

In a strongly worded statement signed by NALPGAM National President, Edu Inyang, and Executive Secretary, Bassey Essien, the group described the situation as “sad and very pathetic,” warning that Nigerians are being forced to pay unaffordable prices for what is considered a basic household energy source.

The association also raised concerns over broader economic and social consequences. It warned that continued price hikes could worsen food inflation, force small businesses to shut down, and push households back to firewood and charcoal—undoing years of progress in Nigeria’s clean energy transition.

NALPGAM blamed the crisis on supply shortages, high depot prices, logistics challenges, and rising operational costs. The group has called on the Federal Government, NMDPRA, NNPC Limited, and other stakeholders to urgently intervene by improving supply allocation, removing distribution bottlenecks, and stabilising prices to prevent further hardship across the country.

source: punch