Chris Okpoko
Like many countries globally, Nigeria is intensifying efforts to transition to a green economy. Nigeria aspires to significantly expand liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) consumption to 5 million metric tonnes per annum by 2030 to reduce deforestation, improve public health, and drive economic growth. This ambition is supported by initiatives like the “Decade of Gas” and measures to boost local production. Similarly, another ambition is to have 30 million households use LPG, popularly known as cooking gas, by 2027. The motivation is not far-fetched. Household air pollution is one of the largest risk factors for premature deaths, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).
While the move to transition to a healthy form of cooking is applaudable, the current economic situation of Nigerians remains a major stumbling block to realising the country’s energy goals. Cooking gas is becoming unaffordable in Nigeria, and as a result, many households are resorting to cheaper, traditional alternatives such as charcoal and firewood.
Aftermath of the strike by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) last October, the price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), otherwise known as cooking gas, has remained high at about N1,400 in Lagos, despite assurances from marketers that the product will return to its pre-October price range of N950 to N1,000 per kilogram (kg).
Nigeria is endowed with an extensive array of natural resources, chief among them being its vast reserves of natural gas. As the largest holder of proven natural gas reserves in Africa, estimated at 210.5 trillion cubic feet (tcf) by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Nigeria ranks among the top ten nations globally in terms of gas reserves. Despite this immense potential, the country’s citizens have struggled to access affordable cooking gas, largely due to inadequate infrastructure and a lack of a cohesive strategy in harnessing these resources. This article examines the current state of Nigeria’s gas industry, the challenges it faces, and insights into how the nation can transform its gas wealth into accessible cooking gas for all Nigerians.
Natural gas is a cleaner alternative to other fossil fuels, offering significant environmental benefits. In many developed nations, it has become the preferred source for cooking and heating. In Nigeria, however, the majority of the population relies on charcoal, firewood, and kerosene, leading to severe deforestation, pollution, and health risks associated with indoor cooking fumes. The underutilization of natural gas as a cooking fuel poses significant challenges for public health and environmental sustainability.
The Nigerian government has long recognized the potential benefits of harnessing its natural gas resources, and several policies have been introduced over the years to promote utilization. However, these initiatives have often lacked effective implementation, resulting in the persistent underdevelopment of the infrastructure necessary for cooking gas distribution.
One of the primary barriers to affordable cooking gas in Nigeria is its inadequate infrastructure. While Nigeria produces substantial amounts of natural gas, much of it is flared due to the absence of sufficient pipelines and processing facilities. Although the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission reported a reduction in gas flaring to 7.16% in July 2025, the report, released recently by the World Bank’s Global Flaring and Methane Reduction Partnership (GFMR), ranked Nigeria among the top nine flaring countries in the World. This waste not only represents a loss of potential revenue but also contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation.
Additionally, existing distribution networks for cooking gas are insufficient and often characterized by logistical inefficiencies. Gas cylinder refilling stations are scarce, particularly in rural areas where access to affordable energy sources is crucial. Consequently, many Nigerians resort to costly alternatives or engage in unsafe practices to cook their meals.
The inability to access affordable cooking gas has far-reaching economic implications. The high cost of energy disproportionately affects low-income households, forcing them to allocate a larger portion of their budgets to fuel. As inflation rises, the price of kerosene and firewood has also increased, further diminishing disposable incomes.
Moreover, leveraging natural gas could create numerous jobs in various sectors, including manufacturing and retail. The establishment of local production facilities for gas cylinders and other related equipment could stimulate economic growth and provide employment opportunities for countless Nigerians.
For Nigeria to capitalize on its natural gas reserves, a strong regulatory framework must be established. Current policies must be revisited and aligned with best practices that encourage investment in the gas sector. For instance, the Nigerian Gas Master Plan was established to guide investments in the industry, yet many of its targets remain unmet. A renewed focus on executing these plans can bolster the construction of necessary infrastructure.
Furthermore, enhancing public-private partnerships can help mobilize resources for investment in the gas sector. By incentivizing private companies to invest in the development of distribution networks and processing plants, the government can foster innovation and improve service delivery.
For any initiative aimed at increasing the accessibility of cooking gas to succeed, public awareness and education are crucial. Many Nigerians may not understand the benefits of transitioning from traditional cooking methods to gas. Campaigns highlighting the efficiency, affordability, and environmental benefits of cooking gas must be developed to change perceptions and encourage usage.
Educational programs can also focus on proper handling and safety practices when using cooking gas. This would mitigate risks associated with gas explosions or leakages, which are often the result of improper handling or outdated equipment in use.
Transitioning to cooking gas requires a multi-faceted approach that incorporates short-term and long-term strategies. In the short term, establishing more filling stations and simplifying access to refillable gas cylinders can significantly increase the availability of cooking gas. It may also be beneficial to consider subsidizing the cost of initial cylinder purchases and refills for low-income households, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder their adoption.
In the long term, investment in infrastructure is essential. Building pipelines to connect remote areas to main supply lines allows for a more widespread distribution of cooking gas. Additionally, integrating renewable energy sources with natural gas could expand energy security, providing more affordable options for the populace while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Nigeria’s vast natural gas reserves represent a golden opportunity to provide affordable cooking gas to millions of citizens who currently rely on less sustainable and more harmful forms of energy. The country’s challenge lies not in the abundance of resources but in overcoming the infrastructure gaps and implementing a cohesive strategy that promotes efficient gas utilization. By investing in infrastructure, strengthening regulatory frameworks, enhancing public awareness, and implementing sustainable solutions, Nigeria can transform its natural gas resources into a catalyst for economic development and an improved quality of life for its citizens. Only then can the promise of affordable cooking gas be fulfilled, paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable future.