As 2025 unfolds, the cost of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), commonly known as cooking gas, varies widely across the world. Some countries are struggling with record-high prices due to energy policies, inflation, and reliance on imports. For Nigeria, where LPG prices are still relatively lower, this presents a unique opportunity to push for wider adoption of clean cooking fuel.
How Global LPG Prices Compare
In some European countries, cooking gas prices have soared:
- Sweden – $1.308 per kg
- Switzerland – $1.221 per kg
- United Kingdom – $1.157 per kg
- Germany – $1.114 per kg
- France – $1.048 per kg
These high prices are largely due to taxation, energy policies, and dependency on imported gas. In contrast, Nigeria’s LPG price remains significantly lower at about $0.928 per kg as of February 2025, thanks to local production.
Why Nigeria Must Increase LPG Use
Despite lower prices, LPG adoption in Nigeria remains slow. Many households still rely on firewood and kerosene, leading to health hazards and environmental damage. Expanding LPG use could bring:
1. Cost Savings for Nigerians
LPG is cheaper and burns more efficiently than kerosene and firewood, helping families save money in the long run.
2. Health and Environmental Benefits
Cooking with LPG reduces indoor air pollution, lowering the risk of respiratory diseases. It also helps reduce deforestation caused by firewood use.
3. Job Creation and Economic Growth
Increased LPG adoption can boost investments in local gas infrastructure, creating jobs and stimulating the economy. The National Clean Cooking Policy aims to generate up to 10 million jobs through LPG expansion.
The Road Ahead
For Nigeria to fully benefit from LPG, key challenges such as infrastructure limitations, price fluctuations, and lack of awareness must be addressed. The government, alongside private sector players, must invest in storage facilities, distribution networks, and consumer education to encourage wider LPG use.
With global prices rising, Nigeria’s access to affordable LPG provides a golden opportunity to transition towards cleaner, cost-effective, and sustainable cooking energy for millions of households.
