Cooking gas prices in Nigeria surged by 16.01% between March and April 2025, according to nationwide market data compiled from major urban and semi-urban centres.
This sharp month on month increase reflects deepening pressure on the LPG market, primarily driven by foreign exchange volatility, rising transport costs, and infrastructure limitations.
LPG Market Overview
The average cooking gas price for a 12.5kg liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinder rose from ₦15,085 in March to ₦17,500 in April 2025 an increase of ₦2,415.
This upward trend has triggered concern among households and industry stakeholders already struggling with cost of living pressures.
State by State Gas Prices (April 2025)
| State/Location | 12.5kg Price (₦) | Price per Kg (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| Plateau State | 19,375 | 1,550 |
| Rivers State | 18,750 | 1,500 |
| Anambra State | 18,750 | 1,500 |
| Ikorodu (Lagos State) | 18,125 | 1,450 |
| Ibadan (Oyo State) | 18,125 | 1,450 |
| Jos | 16,875 | 1,350 |
| Kaduna State | 16,250 | 1,300 |
| Shagamu (Ogun State) | 16,250 | 1,300 |
| Ijebu Ode | 15,000 | 1,200 |
Regional Price Insights
Lowest Price Region:
Ijebu Ode, Ogun State offered the lowest price for cooking gas at ₦15,000 per 12.5kg cylinder. Its strategic proximity to Lagos, Nigeria’s primary gas import hub, gives it a logistical edge, reducing transport and depot costs.
Mid-Range Price Regions:
Kaduna, Shagamu, and Jos reported intermediate pricing between ₦16,250 and ₦16,875. These areas benefit from relatively stable distribution networks despite inland location challenges.
Highest Price Region:
Plateau State topped the price chart at ₦19,375. Long haul transport distances, infrastructure bottlenecks, and regional supply chain disruptions are key contributors.
What’s Driving the Price Hike?
1. Foreign Exchange Pressure:
The devaluation of the naira has raised the landing cost of imported LPG, making imports more expensive for local distributors.
2. Rising Transport Costs:
Higher diesel prices and poor road infrastructure have led to increased distribution expenses, particularly for remote northern states.
3. Terminal Bottlenecks:
Delays at Apapa and other coastal LPG depots disrupted supply flows in April, causing temporary shortages inland.
4. Demand Surge from Energy Transition:
Government backed clean cooking campaigns have accelerated demand, but supply has not kept pace, creating tension in regional markets.
5. Security and Accessibility Issues:
Insecurity in the Niger Delta and parts of the North affects logistics and inflates local prices due to intermittent supply disruptions.
Sector Outlook and Recommendations
April’s 16% price rise underscores the urgent need for sustainable gas infrastructure. Nigeria must invest in:
- Domestic LPG production to reduce import dependence
- Local bottling facilities closer to demand centres
- Reliable transport logistics, particularly for northern delivery routes
- Incentives for private sector involvement in LPG storage and distribution
Without these improvements, affordability and energy access for millions of Nigerians remain at risk.
