Retail prices of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), commonly known as cooking gas, have dropped significantly across Nigeria following a massive surge in imports, according to data from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). In Abuja, major filling stations now sell at between ₦1,300 and ₦1,400 per kilogram, down from earlier rates of ₦1,450 to ₦1,500. Independent retailers in areas such as Dawaki, Kubwa, Gwarampa, and Lugbe have also reduced prices to around ₦1,500 per kilogram from approximately ₦1,700.
New Rates for 6kg and 12.5kg Cylinders
At the current rates, refilling a 6kg cylinder costs between ₦7,800 and ₦9,000, while a 12.5kg cylinder costs between ₦16,250 and ₦18,750. Prices vary by state due to differences in transportation and local operating costs, according to a report by PetroleumPriceNG.
Imports Surge 1,400% in June 2026
The NMDPRA reported that LPG imports surged by 1,400% in June 2026, reaching about 1.5 kilotonnes per day. This sharp increase in imports has improved product availability and reduced supply pressure in the domestic market. Industry operators believe the stronger supply has helped cushion the cooking gas market against external pressures affecting other petroleum products.
Lagos Depot Prices Signal Further Relief
Wholesale prices at major LPG depots in Lagos also reflect the improved supply. On July 27, 2026, Navgas sold cooking gas at ₦1,025 per kilogram, while Nipco and 11PLC offered it at ₦1,075 per kilogram. These depot prices are significantly lower than retail prices in many parts of the country, but the difference is attributed to transportation, cylinder handling, storage, and distribution costs, which can delay the transmission of lower wholesale prices to households.
Consumers Expect More Price Cuts
Unlike petrol and diesel, which have faced sustained pressure from higher international crude oil prices and foreign exchange costs, the cooking gas market has remained relatively stable due to stronger imports and improved availability. Market operators expect the downward trend to continue if import volumes remain strong and the naira maintains relative stability. However, they warn that disruptions to global shipping routes or a sharp increase in international LPG prices could slow or reverse the recent decline.
LPG Consumption Rises 24%
The NMDPRA also reported that Nigeria’s daily LPG consumption rose by 24% to 5.1 kilotonnes per day in June 2026, up from 4.1 kilotonnes per day in the previous month. The agency attributed the increase to improved supply and lower prices.
