The Nigerian Association of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers (NALPGAM) has raised concerns over the rising cost and irregular supply of cooking gas, warning that the situation could lead to scarcity and deepen economic hardship for millions of Nigerians.

In a statement signed by the association’s National President, Edu Inyang, and Executive Secretary, Bassey Essien, marketers said Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) now sells for over N1,500 per kilogramme, while the cost of purchasing 20 metric tonnes has risen to between N25.2 million and N26.2 million, depending on location.

The association described the development as alarming, noting that households, food vendors, small businesses, and low-income earners are struggling to cope with the soaring prices.

NALPGAM warned that if urgent steps are not taken to address the situation, consumers may direct their frustration at gas retailers and filling station operators.

According to the marketers, the LPG sector is grappling with persistent supply shortages, high depot prices, distribution challenges, and increasing operational costs, making it difficult for operators to maintain a stable supply.

The group said the current crisis threatens years of progress made in promoting clean cooking energy across the country, as many Nigerians who previously adopted cooking gas may be forced to return to firewood and charcoal.

NALPGAM noted that the rising cost of LPG is already affecting household budgets and increasing pressure on small businesses that depend on gas for daily operations.

The association further warned that prolonged instability in the market could contribute to higher food prices, job losses within the LPG value chain, reduced investor confidence, and setbacks to Nigeria’s clean energy objectives.

It called on the Federal Government, the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, domestic producers, terminal operators, and other stakeholders to take urgent action to stabilise supply and prices.

Among its recommendations were increased domestic allocation of LPG, improved transparency in product distribution, reduction of importation and logistics bottlenecks, expansion of storage infrastructure, and policies aimed at making cooking gas more affordable.

NALPGAM reiterated its readiness to collaborate with government and industry stakeholders to find lasting solutions, stressing that immediate intervention is necessary to prevent further hardship for consumers and businesses.