The FG Plans Intervention as Cooking Gas Prices Hit N1,300/kg.
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, has announced that the Federal Government is committed to taking necessary actions to address the escalating costs of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), commonly referred to as cooking gas. This statement comes in light of recent price increases, which have raised concerns among consumers.
On Monday, during the launch of the Decade of Gas Initiative, the minister highlighted the distribution of gas cylinders to approximately 300 women in Lagos State. This initiative aims to promote the use of cleaner cooking alternatives.
According to reports from The PUNCH, the price of cooking gas, which had dropped to around N1,000 per kilogram in June and July, has surged to N1,300 in some areas. Additionally, the cost to refill a 12kg cylinder has risen to between N16,000 and N17,000, compared to N12,000 just a few weeks prior.
Read Also: FG May Transform Arik and Aero Contractors into National Airlines.
In response to these rising prices, Ekpo expressed his intention to convene a meeting with regulators and gas producers. He emphasized the need to explore solutions to make cooking gas more affordable for consumers.
“I received information this morning about the rising price of cooking gas. Therefore, I plan to invite the regulators and producers for a meeting. We are focused on reducing prices to ensure they are more accessible,” Ekpo stated.
The minister further stressed that energy security hinges on both affordability and availability. He assured the public that the government would investigate the reasons behind the price hikes and work diligently to lower them.
Moreover, Ekpo reiterated that the distribution of gas cylinders is part of a broader government initiative aimed at providing 1 million homes with access to clean cooking by the year 2030. This initiative was approved by President Bola Tinubu, reflecting his commitment to the health and well-being of citizens.
Finally, the minister encouraged the women to transition from traditional cooking methods, such as firewood, kerosene, and charcoal, to LPG, highlighting its cleanliness, safety, and environmental benefits. He also cautioned against selling the cylinders, assuring them that gas would be available at a more affordable rate.
