Cooking gas prices surge despite higher domestic supply

The price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (cooking gas) has continued to rise across the country despite a significant increase in its domestic production and a decline in imports, The PUNCH reports. Data obtained from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority showed that local production from refineries and gas processing plants accounted for the bulk of Nigeria’s LPG supply between April 2025 and April 2026, reducing the country’s dependence on imports. However, the increased domestic supply has not translated into lower prices for consumers, with the cost of cooking gas rising to as high as N2,000 per kilogramme in some parts of the country. According to NMDPRA data, average daily domestic LPG supply ranged between 3,300 and 4,500 tonnes throughout the period under review. In March and April 2026, local supply stood at 4,500 tonnes per day, accounting for the majority of national LPG availability. In contrast, imports by oil marketing companies declined considerably during the period. Imported volumes fell to 200 tonnes per day in March 2026, compared with 1,600 tonnes per day in November 2025 and 1,500 tonnes per day in December 2025. The report showed that total average daily LPG supply ranged between 4,200 tonnes and 5,200 tonnes, peaking at 5,200 tonnes per day in December 2025 before settling at 4,500 tonnes by April 2026. The steady domestic contribution has been linked to improved output from gas processing facilities and increased refining capacity, including supplies associated with the Dangote Petroleum Refinery. Despite improved availability of locally produced LPG, consumers continue to grapple with rising prices and occasional shortages. Checks by The PUNCH indicate that cooking gas, which sold for less than N1,000 per kilogramme in many locations months ago, now sells for around N2,000 per kilogramme, depending on the area. Marketers attributed the development to supply chain challenges and scarcity in some locations, noting that the product has become difficult to source in certain neighbourhood markets. The continued rise in LPG prices has forced many households to resort to alternative cooking fuels such as charcoal and firewood, raising concerns about the impact on clean energy adoption and environmental sustainability. Meanwhile, NMDPRA data showed that major gas infrastructure projects designed to improve gas transportation across the country are nearing completion. Related News Kwankwaso denies planning protest over insecurity, backs peaceful action Protesters defy rainfall, storm Oyo govt house over abductio