In Nigeria, the choice of cooking appliances is influenced by factors such as cost, energy availability, and infrastructure. Many households prefer gas and kerosene stoves instead of electric cookers due to several key reasons.
Affordability and Accessibility
Kerosene and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) are more readily available and affordable for many Nigerians. The initial cost of acquiring gas or kerosene stoves is relatively low compared to electric cookers, making them accessible to a larger segment of the population. Additionally, the inconsistent electricity supply in many parts of Nigeria makes reliance on electric cookers impractical. Only about 40% of the population is connected to the national grid, with 90% of rural areas having unreliable or no electricity at all.
Advantages of Gas and Kerosene Stoves
- Portability: These stoves are portable and can be used in various locations, which is beneficial for households without a stable electricity connection.
- Immediate Heat: Gas stoves, in particular, provide immediate heat, allowing for efficient cooking without the wait time associated with electric cookers.
- Independence from Power Supply: Since they do not rely on electricity, gas and kerosene stoves are unaffected by power outages, ensuring uninterrupted cooking.
Disadvantages of Gas and Kerosene Stoves
- Health Risks: Cooking with kerosene has been linked to adverse health impacts, including increased risks of respiratory diseases and cardiovascular issues.
- Environmental Concerns: The use of kerosene and, to a lesser extent, gas contributes to environmental pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
- Safety Hazards: There is a risk of fires and explosions associated with the improper handling and storage of kerosene and gas.
Challenges with Electric Cookers
The primary challenges associated with electric cookers in Nigeria include:
- Unreliable Power Supply: Frequent power outages make electric cookers unreliable for daily use.
- High Electricity Costs: The cost of electricity can be prohibitive for many households, making electric cooking more expensive compared to gas or kerosene.
- Infrastructure Limitations: Inadequate electrical infrastructure in many areas limits the feasibility of using electric cookers.
While gas and kerosene stoves offer certain advantages in terms of affordability and independence from the unreliable power grid, they also pose health and environmental risks. Addressing these issues requires improving electricity infrastructure, making electric cooking appliances more accessible, and promoting cleaner cooking alternatives to enhance public health and environmental sustainability.
