The ongoing rise in Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) prices in Nigeria highlights deeper issues within the nation's economy. As of now, the price for a 12.5kg cylinder of cooking gas has surged to about ₦15,000, a significant increase from ₦11,250 in December 2023. This price hike is attributed primarily to the depreciation of the Naira, which currently stands at ₦1,400 per dollar in the official market, and a host of other factors, including high demand and inadequate supply.

This sharp increase has forced many Nigerians to revert to using traditional cooking methods like charcoal and firewood, which are not only cheaper but also contribute to environmental degradation through deforestation. As prices continue to rise, concerns grow over the economic and health impacts, especially as more people turn to less clean and sustainable energy sources.

The current trend suggests a pressing need for economic reforms and more effective management of Nigeria's rich gas resources to ensure energy affordability and sustainability for all.

In a conversation with Mrs. Kehinde Adeola, a caterer based in Ayobo, she mentioned, "Normally, I use gas sometimes; I use charcoal to cook for my customers, but now due to the increase in cooking gas, I resort to using charcoal because it is cheaper, although it is not that convenient for me, but I just have to use it because of the economic situation."

Similarly, Mrs. Adenike Damilola, who sells charcoal at Ayobo market, remarked, "Usually, a bag of charcoal goes for ₦3,000 depending on the season and quality of the wood. Now, a bag of charcoal goes for at least ₦5,000. Some say it is because of the increase in the price of gas; some say it is because of deforestation. Nowadays, I've been making more sales than I used to as people are now using charcoal to cook because it is cheaper, although the price might skyrocket soon."

With Nigeria holding the ninth-largest LPG resource in the world, the economic management of this resource is crucial to prevent further inflationary pressures and to maintain accessibility for the average Nigerian household.

Given the critical nature of this issue, it is imperative that economic reforms are implemented to stabilize LPG prices and ensure sustainable energy options remain viable for all Nigerians.

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