Millions of households fear tougher days ahead as LPG prices surge across Nigeria
Fresh economic pressure has hit Nigerian households as the price of cooking gas, also known as Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), has surged to about ₦1,500 per kilogram nationwide, sparking outrage among struggling citizens already battling inflation and rising living costs.
The latest increase means that a standard 12.5kg cylinder now costs as much as ₦18,750 to refill in several parts of the country, while some residents in Lagos, Abuja and Ogun reportedly pay even higher prices. The development has triggered fresh fears over deepening hardship under Nigeria’s fragile economy.
Industry marketers blamed the hike on supply shortages, rising depot costs and logistics challenges affecting distribution nationwide. According to the Nigerian Association of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers, only a few major depots currently have sufficient stock, creating pressure on supply chains and pushing prices upward.
For many Nigerians, the increase is becoming unbearable. Small food vendors, families and low-income earners say they may be forced to abandon gas cooking entirely and return to charcoal or firewood due to the escalating prices. Social media has also been flooded with complaints from frustrated citizens accusing the government of failing to cushion the effects of economic reforms.
The development comes at a time when Nigerians are already grappling with rising food prices, transport fares, unstable electricity and insecurity. Economic analysts warn that continuous increases in energy-related commodities could further worsen inflation and reduce purchasing power for millions of citizens across the country.