Harry Archie
The rising cost of cooking gas is forcing many Nigerians to switch to charcoal and firewood for cooking.
The Nigerian Association of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers (NALPGAM) warned that increasing gas prices could push more families away from cleaner cooking fuels.
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The association said marketers are facing high supply, transportation, and operating costs, which have led to higher prices for consumers.
Across several states, residents said they can no longer afford cooking gas.
In Kaduna, Kano, Rivers, Borno, Gombe, Plateau and other states, many households now use charcoal or firewood for most of their cooking and reserve gas only for essential tasks such as boiling water.
In Kano, the price of gas has risen from about N1,100 per kilogram to between N1,500 and N1,550.
Many residents say charcoal is now a cheaper option, although its price is also increasing.
In Lagos, some families have turned to alternatives such as power stoves and green gel fuel, which they say are more affordable than cooking gas.
Experts warn that increased use of charcoal and firewood could create serious health and environmental problems.
They say smoke from traditional fuels can cause respiratory diseases and other health risks, especially for women and children.
Increased dependence on firewood could also worsen deforestation and environmental damage.
Stakeholders are urging the government to take steps to reduce the cost of cooking gas and make clean energy more affordable for Nigerians.
