By Ranti Thomas
Nigerians are paying more for cooking gas despite a rise in domestic production and supply, raising fresh concerns about the affordability of household energy across the country.
Recent market checks show that the price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), commonly known as cooking gas, has continued to increase in many parts of Nigeria, placing additional pressure on families already struggling with rising living costs.
Industry stakeholders say the situation appears contradictory because local supply has improved in recent months. However, they argue that several factors, including exchange rate fluctuations, transportation costs, distribution challenges and market forces, continue to push prices upward.
Data from operators in the sector indicate that domestic producers are supplying larger volumes of cooking gas to the Nigerian market than in previous years. Despite this, consumers have not experienced the expected reduction in retail prices.
Many households now spend significantly more to refill gas cylinders than they did a year ago. The increase has forced some families to reduce consumption, while others have turned to alternative cooking methods due to the rising cost.
Experts say one of the major challenges is the cost of moving gas from production facilities to retail outlets across the country. Transportation expenses have risen sharply since the removal of fuel subsidy, affecting the entire supply chain.
There are also concerns about infrastructure gaps within the LPG sector. Industry players argue that inadequate storage facilities, limited distribution networks and logistical bottlenecks continue to affect the final price paid by consumers.
Some marketers have blamed the depreciation of the naira for part of the increase, noting that several aspects of the business, including equipment and operational costs, remain linked to foreign exchange.
The rising cost of cooking gas has become a major concern because the Federal Government has for years encouraged Nigerians to switch from firewood and kerosene to cleaner energy sources. Stakeholders warn that persistent price increases could discourage that transition.
Energy experts have called for policies that would reduce distribution costs, improve infrastructure and ensure that the benefits of increased local production are passed on to consumers.
As prices continue to climb, many Nigerians are hoping that ongoing efforts to boost domestic gas production and improve energy infrastructure will eventually translate into lower costs and more affordable cooking fuel for households nationwide.