Weeks after the Federal Government pledged to address the rising cost of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), commonly known as cooking gas, the commodity has remained expensive across Abuja.
A market survey conducted by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday revealed that the price of cooking gas still sells for as high as ₦1,800 per kilogram, particularly among roadside retailers.
The price of LPG, which previously sold for about ₦1,100 per kilogram, rose sharply to between ₦1,450 and ₦1,800 per kilogram following the recent strike by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN).
In response to the spike, the Federal Government directed the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to intensify monitoring of LPG depots to prevent hoarding and ensure steady supply.
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Dr. Ekperikpe Ekpo, attributed the price surge to two key factors — the industrial action by PENGASSAN at the Dangote Refinery and ongoing maintenance at the Nigeria LNG Train 4 facility, which affected domestic gas supply.
Ekpo, however, assured Nigerians that operations at the Dangote Refinery had resumed, with loading of LPG to the domestic market already in progress. He also disclosed that the Bonny River Terminal operated by Seplat Energy had commenced loading activities, while Nigeria LNG was gradually restoring operations as maintenance neared completion.
At various retail points visited, sellers cited high purchase costs as the reason for maintaining elevated prices.
“I still have old stock. When the price we buy comes down, we will also sell at a reduced rate. Since the Dangote Refinery has resumed supply, I believe the price will drop when we get new deliveries,” said Mr. Kingsley Paul, a retailer.
At one major outlet, cooking gas sold for ₦1,450 per kilogram, with the manager—who preferred to remain anonymous—expressing optimism that prices would fall once new supplies arrive.
Meanwhile, consumers have continued to call on the government to find a lasting solution to the rising cost of LPG, noting its importance to millions of households.
An environmentalist, Mr. Christian Chibuzor, praised government efforts to encourage gas usage but urged that affordability be prioritized.
“Using cooking gas will help lower carbon emissions compared to firewood, charcoal, or kerosene, improving air quality and reducing respiratory diseases. However, if the price remains high, the transition will be difficult, especially in rural areas. The government must show real commitment to making gas affordable,” he said.