The surging cooking gas prices in Nigeria have sparked alarm, prompting industry leaders to seek swift government action. Leading this charge is the Nigerian Association of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers (NALPGAM).

At NALPGAM’s recent 36th Annual General Meeting in Ibadan, its National President, Mr. Abideen Olatunbosun, pushed for decisive intervention. He expressed fears that, if unchecked, cooking gas might soon become unaffordable for many Nigerians.

“The constant rise in gas prices challenges LPG marketers significantly. We appeal to the government to ensure price stability and availability for the public’s good,” Olatunbosun said.

He also emphasized the broader benefits of increasing gas usage in Nigeria, such as environmental protection, improved living standards, and economic growth.

Beyond affordability, the environment and sustainable energy are at stake. Prof. Sunday Isehunwa of the University of Ibadan highlighted LPG’s role in Nigeria’s aim for net-zero carbon emissions by 2060. For this, he emphasized expanding LPG supply and addressing market malpractices.

“Much of our LPG is sourced from the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG). We need additional contributions from active refineries and advanced gas facilities,” Isehunwa said. The NAN News reported that he also urged addressing import barriers and enhancing infrastructure, especially in rural areas.

Mr. Ogbugo Ukoha, from the Nigerian Midstream And Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, discussed the effects of recent policy changes. He thinks the new deregulation policy will yield truer product pricing, mirroring genuine market dynamics. Notably, he highlighted that domestic gas supplies now surpass imports.

Ukoha asserted, “To sustain gas reserves and guarantee distribution, substantial gas infrastructure investments are vital. We aim to boost LPG supply, naturally reducing its price for Nigerians.”

The meeting ended with organizational changes, including electing new national executives and awarding honors.

As the nation contends with escalating cooking gas prices, industry experts rally for lasting solutions, emphasizing collaboration among the government, private sector, and consumers.