Despite a recent report from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) indicating a decline in the average cost of refilling a 5kg Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinder—from ₦8,243.79 in July to ₦6,404.02 in August 2025—a fresh market survey by GoldenNewsNg reveals a different reality.
Prices have continued to soar across the country, with current rates ranging between ₦1,800 and ₦3,500 per kilogram depending on the retailer and availability. Consumers have expressed frustration over long queues, scarcity, and inconsistent pricing across refilling outlets.
Why the Scarcity?
Olatunbosun Oladapo, President of the Nigerian Association of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers (NALPGAM), attributed the price increase to temporary supply disruptions caused by the PENGASSAN strike and ongoing maintenance at the Dangote Refinery.
He explained that these factors briefly affected the berthing of gas vessels and slowed nationwide distribution. However, he assured that supply would normalize soon as refineries and gas depots resume full operation.
Energy expert Dr. Ayodele Oni also noted that despite an increase in domestic gas production, a significant portion of locally produced LPG is still exported, creating instability in the local market and making prices unpredictable.
Government Response
According to a source at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), measures are being taken to stabilize the market, including increased distribution from local suppliers and monitoring of retail stations to prevent hoarding and price manipulation.
Officials say Nigerians should expect gradual improvement in supply within the coming weeks.
Reactions Trail New Price of Cooking Gas
The sudden hike in gas prices has reactions from citizens on social media. Many expressed concern over the rising cost of living and its impact on household budgets.
Angel Uzoma Delight said:
“That’s what I heard too. My neighbor said it’s ₦2,000 per kg. I don shout tire cos my gas fit finish any moment from now. My first cylinder empty, this second one go soon finish. God, so I go use ₦48,000 take fill two of my 12kg?”
Chinenye Linda Okonkwo said:
“You bought 12kg for ₦24,000 and you’re complaining? In some places, 7.5kg is ₦29,000!”
Nwachinemerem Joy C. Obasi advised:
“I feel maybe the seller cheated you if you didn’t buy from a registered gas company. Try refilling at gas stations inside fuel stations near you — they usually offer better prices.”
Albert Uche commented:
“I just filled mine for ₦12,600 last week. Abi e don increase again?”
Jane Ojiaku added:
“I bought ₦13,750 for 12.5kg yesterday, but there was a long queue. It seems there’s a price hike already.”
Ogochukwu Maryann remarked:
“It started on October 1st. I passed a gas station that day and saw a huge crowd. I knew something was happening. I’m just managing what I have left — the price is too much.”
Akintomide Kehinde Rolake said:
“They are capitalizing on the PENGASSAN strike situation.”
Joy Uzoamaka Chilekwe wrote:
“Ehhh, which part of Nigeria am I living sef? My husband just told me about it tonight.”
Ibitein Benson said:
“I filled gas on Wednesday, it was ₦1,250 per kg. It’s getting worse everywhere.”
Nigeria consumes over 1.3 million metric tonnes of LPG annually, but domestic supply still struggles to meet growing demand. The Federal Government aims for 90% LPG adoption by 2030 under the Decade of Gas Initiative, yet recurring shortages, logistical delays, and foreign exchange challenges continue to hinder progress.
Experts urge households to use gas efficiently, avoid panic buying, and expect stabilization once full distribution resumes nationwide.
