Cooking Gas Hits ₦2,000/kg, HURIWA Warns Tinubu Against ‘Economic Cruelty’ to Nigerians - Newstrends
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Cooking Gas Hits ₦2,000/kg, HURIWA Warns Tinubu Against ‘Economic Cruelty’ to Nigerians

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Why LPG Prices Won’t Drop Anytime Soon: NMDPRA Explains

Cooking Gas Hits ₦2,000/kg, HURIWA Warns Tinubu Against ‘Economic Cruelty’ to Nigerians

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has raised alarm over the continued rise in cooking gas prices across the country, warning that the cost of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) reaching ₦2,000 per kilogram in some locations is worsening the hardship faced by millions of Nigerians and threatening their constitutional right to life. In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, the rights group expressed concern over reports that cooking gas now sells for as much as ₦2,000 per kilogram in several parts of the country. HURIWA described the development as a reflection of weak market regulation and government inaction, arguing that cooking gas, which remains a basic household necessity, is gradually becoming unaffordable for ordinary Nigerians already battling high food prices, rising transport fares and increasing electricity costs.

HURIWA condemned the sharp rise in cooking gas prices, describing the development as “economic cruelty” and warning that unchecked profiteering is undermining citizens’ constitutional right to life. The group linked the soaring cost of LPG to broader constitutional concerns, citing Chapter IV of the 1999 Constitution and arguing that the right to life includes access to conditions that make survival dignified and sustainable. “The astronomical rise in the price of cooking gas is not merely an economic issue but a fundamental human rights concern. The direct consequence of making essential household energy unaffordable is mass hunger, malnutrition, disease, and avoidable deaths among vulnerable populations,” the statement said. According to HURIWA, families already grappling with high food prices, transportation costs, electricity tariffs and healthcare expenses are increasingly finding it difficult to meet basic needs. The organisation warned that many families are now being forced to make difficult choices between purchasing cooking gas and meeting other essential needs.

Official data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) confirms the steady upward trend in cooking gas prices across the country. According to the NBS Cooking Gas Price Watch for March 2026, the average price for refilling a 5kg cylinder rose by 12.60 percent month-on-month from ₦6,799.18 in February 2026 to ₦7,655.73 in March 2026. The average retail price for refilling a 12.5kg cylinder increased by 15.62 percent month-on-month from ₦16,997.94 in February 2026 to ₦19,652.83 in March 2026. State-level analysis shows significant regional variations. For the 12.5kg cylinder, Nasarawa recorded the highest average retail price at ₦23,418.12, followed by Kaduna at ₦23,030.52 and Akwa Ibom at ₦22,816.74. The lowest average price was recorded in Bauchi at ₦15,738.50. By zonal analysis, the North-West recorded the highest average retail prices for both cylinder sizes.

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The price surge has occurred despite increased domestic LPG production. Data from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) shows that local refineries and gas processing plants supplied the majority of the country’s LPG needs between April 2025 and April 2026. Domestic LPG supply consistently ranged between 3,300 and 4,500 tonnes per day, reaching 4,500 tonnes daily in both March and April 2026. During the same period, imports dropped sharply from 1,600 tonnes per day in November 2025 to just 200 tonnes per day in March 2026. However, greater domestic production has failed to reduce the financial burden on consumers. Cooking gas, which sold for less than ₦1,000 per kilogramme in many areas only months ago, now sells for around ₦2,000 per kilogramme in some locations.

The Nigerian Association of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers (NALPGAM) has shed light on the challenges driving the price surge. According to the association, marketers currently pay between N25.2 million and N26.2 million for 20 metric tonnes of LPG, depending on location. The National President of NALPGAM, Edu Inyang, and its Executive Secretary, Bassey Essien, aptly described the situation as “sad and rather very pathetic.” NALPGAM warned that the crisis is eroding years of progress made by government policies and public-private campaigns to deepen LPG penetration as a safer alternative to kerosene, firewood, and charcoal. “Millions of Nigerians embraced cooking gas under the national clean energy transition agenda. Those gains are now at risk. Households cannot refill cylinders, small businesses are folding under rising energy costs, and many families are reverting to firewood and charcoal despite serious implications for public health, environmental degradation, and deforestation,” the association said.

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HURIWA further warned that if cooking gas continues to move beyond the reach of average households, more Nigerians may resort to firewood and charcoal for cooking. It noted that such a shift could increase deforestation, worsen environmental degradation and expose families to health risks associated with smoke inhalation. The scale of the potential health crisis is alarming. According to the Voice of Nigeria, more than 160 million of Nigeria’s estimated 237 million people still lack access to clean cooking solutions. Consequently, millions depend on traditional fuels such as firewood, charcoal, and kerosene for their daily cooking needs. This dependence has devastating health implications. Reports indicate that between 80,000 and 95,000 Nigerians die prematurely every year from illnesses linked to toxic indoor air pollution caused by dirty cooking fuels. Unsafe cooking smoke has become Nigeria’s third-largest silent killer after malaria and HIV/AIDS. Any development that pushes citizens away from cleaner cooking energy should therefore be viewed as a national emergency.

Experts have attributed the surge in cooking gas prices to multiple factors. Mr Opeyemi Alabi, an economist, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that geopolitical tensions in the Middle East caused by the U.S.-Iran conflict have led to an increase in global Brent crude oil and LPG prices. Additionally, LPG is a globally traded commodity often priced in US Dollars, meaning fluctuations or devaluation of the Naira immediately increase the landing cost of imported gas, which still makes up a large part of Nigeria’s supply despite rising local production. The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has also decried what it described as the inherent monopoly in the cooking gas value chain in Nigeria, advising the government to break the monopoly and liberalise the market with a view to enabling more operators to manage the market efficiently.

HURIWA called on the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently investigate the factors driving the increase in cooking gas prices and implement measures aimed at stabilising the market. The group urged relevant regulatory agencies to identify and sanction individuals or companies engaged in exploitative pricing practices, while also advocating targeted interventions and fiscal policies to reduce the burden on consumers. “The association reiterates that governance must ultimately be measured by its impact on the lives of citizens. Any economic policy or regulatory failure that results in widespread hunger, suffering, and preventable deaths cannot be justified under any democratic system,” the statement added. The Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA) has similarly recommended that the government improve domestic gas supply, support local LPG production, invest in distribution infrastructure across the country, and provide social protection measures, particularly for vulnerable households. The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has yet to issue an official response to HURIWA’s allegations or the growing public outcry over cooking gas prices as of the time of this report.

Cooking Gas Hits ₦2,000/kg, HURIWA Warns Tinubu Against ‘Economic Cruelty’ to Nigerians

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NAJA 19th Auto Awards: Industry’s best to battle for honours December 3

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September 5, 2026

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NAJA 19th Auto Awards: Industry’s best to battle for honours December 3

The battle for recognition among Nigeria’s automobile brands, executives and industry players will reach its climax on December 3, 2026, as the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) stages the grand finale of its 19th annual automotive awards.

The prestigious ceremony, scheduled for the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, is expected to bring together leading automobile manufacturers, distributors, dealers, financial institutions, policymakers, motoring enthusiasts and other major stakeholders in the automotive industry.

The organisers said the 19th edition is being designed to surpass previous editions in scale, organisation and glamour, without compromising the credibility and professional standards for which the awards have become known.

Chairman of the 2026 NAJA Awards Planning Committee, Frank Kintum, said the committee was determined to deliver a ceremony that would reflect the growing importance of the automotive industry to Nigeria’s economy.

According to him, the awards have evolved beyond a mere celebration of popular brands to become a platform for identifying and rewarding individuals, companies and products that have made measurable contributions to the development of the sector.

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Kintum said the 19th edition would be “bigger and more glamorous” than previous editions, adding that the committee was working to ensure that every aspect of the ceremony reflects the quality, innovation and achievements of the industry.

He said products, brands and personalities would be assessed across relevant segments of the automotive sector, with winners emerging through the approved NAJA awards modalities.

Also speaking on the awards, NAJA Chairman, Theodore Opara, said the association was focused on rewarding genuine excellence rather than simply celebrating the biggest players in the market.

Opara said the objective was to recognise individuals and organisations that had demonstrated measurable excellence and made meaningful contributions to the growth and transformation of Nigeria’s automotive industry.

He noted that the awards had continued to gain relevance among industry stakeholders because of the credibility attached to the judging and evaluation process.

The 2026 edition comes at a critical period for Nigeria’s automotive industry, which is undergoing significant transformation driven by emerging technologies, electric mobility, local vehicle production, changing consumer preferences and evolving government policies.

Against this backdrop, NAJA said the awards would provide an opportunity to celebrate companies and individuals at the forefront of these changes and those contributing to the future direction of the industry.

The association urged automobile manufacturers, distributors, dealers and other stakeholders to participate actively in the awards process as preparations gather momentum for the December 3 grand finale.

 

NAJA 19th Auto Awards: Industry’s best to battle for honours December 3

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Jetour Takes Rely R8 Premium Pickup to Abuja in Major FCT Debut

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September 5, 2026

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Jetour Takes Rely R8 Premium Pickup to Abuja in Major FCT Debut

Jetour Nigeria is taking the battle for Nigeria’s premium pickup market to Abuja with the debut of the all-new RELY R8, a heavy-duty pickup that combines rugged off-road capability with the comfort, technology and refinement of an executive SUV.

The premium pickup will headline the Jetour Experience in the Federal Capital Territory from September 22 to 24, 2026, following the strong reception recorded during the showcase in Lagos.

The Abuja edition is expected to attract government officials, corporate executives, fleet operators, business owners, automobile enthusiasts and members of the media, with prospective customers given an opportunity to experience the R8 first-hand.

The RELY R8 is positioned as a versatile workhorse designed to serve demanding sectors including agriculture, construction, logistics and security, while offering the level of comfort and sophistication increasingly demanded by premium pickup buyers.

Unlike conventional work-oriented pickups, the R8 seeks to bridge the gap between utility and executive motoring, combining heavy-duty capability with a refined cabin and advanced technology.

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Its off-road credentials are underpinned by high ground clearance, a reinforced chassis and an All-Terrain Management System featuring dedicated driving modes for mud, sand and asphalt.

The configuration is designed to give the pickup the versatility to move from challenging work environments to recreational adventures without compromising its rugged character.

Inside, Jetour has given the R8 a spacious five-seat cabin with SUV-inspired ergonomics, targeting drivers and passengers who spend long hours on the road.

The smart cockpit is powered by a high-performance processor and supports Level 2+ intelligent driving assistance. It also comes with a 12.3-inch HD touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and remote engine-start functionality.

For Jetour Nigeria, however, the R8’s appeal goes beyond performance and technology, with the company putting considerable emphasis on ownership support.

The automaker currently operates through seven accredited dealerships across the country, including Elizade Nigeria Limited, New Era AutoVehicle Services, Kojo Motors, Germaine Auto Centre, Tab Autos, R.T. Briscoe Motors and Mandilas Motors.

The network is expected to provide customers with access to authorised service facilities, genuine spare parts and manufacturer-backed warranty protection.

The company is also leveraging its growing presence in the Nigerian market, following industry recognition from the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association.

Jetour was recently named Fastest Growing Auto Brand of the Year by NAJA, while the Jetour Dashing won the Car of the Year award at the NAJA International Auto Awards.

The latest Abuja showcase is therefore expected to provide Jetour with another opportunity to strengthen its footprint in the premium and commercial vehicle segments, particularly among fleet operators and corporate users.

Jetour Nigeria is inviting prospective customers, automotive stakeholders and enthusiasts to register for test drives and obtain updates on the Abuja experience through its website, social media platforms or email.

With its combination of heavy-duty capability, off-road technology, premium cabin appointments and intelligent driving features, the RELY R8 is expected to be one of the major attractions of the Abuja automotive calendar this month.

 

Jetour Takes Rely R8 Premium Pickup to Abuja in Major FCT Debut

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BREAKING: OPay Warns Customers Against Viral Shutdown Message, Threatens Legal Action

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September 5, 2026

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BREAKING: OPay Warns Customers Against Viral Shutdown Message, Threatens Legal Action

BREAKING: OPay Warns Customers Against Viral Shutdown Message, Threatens Legal Action

OPay, one of Nigeria’s leading digital financial services platforms, has dismissed reports circulating on social media claiming that the company is shutting down its operations or proceeding on an indefinite leave.

The company, in an official statement, described the messages as false and misleading, urging its customers and members of the public to disregard the reports and refrain from sharing unverified information.

The clarification comes amid messages being circulated across social media platforms allegedly advising OPay customers to withdraw their funds because the fintech company was purportedly preparing to shut down.

However, OPay said there was no basis for the claims, stressing that its operations remained fully functional and that customers could continue to use their accounts as usual.

“OPay remains fully operational, and your money is safe and secure,” the company stated, adding that its services were continuing to run normally.

The digital banking platform assured customers that they could continue using their OPay accounts “with confidence,” apparently seeking to calm concerns that may have arisen from the viral messages.

OPay further pointed to its regulatory status in Nigeria, stating that it is duly licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and its deposits are insured by the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC).

The company said its regulatory and insurance status underscored its commitment to providing safe, reliable and convenient financial services to Nigerians.

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The fintech firm also revealed that the authorities had taken the circulation of the alleged false information seriously.

According to OPay, the Central Bank of Nigeria, in conjunction with security and law-enforcement agencies, is investigating the individuals responsible for creating and spreading the messages.

The company warned that those found culpable would face legal consequences.

“We take this matter seriously,” OPay said, adding that violators would be prosecuted “to the full extent of the law.”

The company also appealed to its customers to exercise caution when receiving information about its operations, particularly messages circulated through social media and other unofficial channels.

OPay urged users not to believe or share unverified claims, advising them to rely on the company’s official communication channels for accurate information concerning its services.

Reaffirming its commitment to the Nigerian market, the company said: “OPay is committed to Nigeria and Nigerians. We are here, and we are not going anywhere.”

The statement ended with an appreciation to customers for their continued confidence in the digital banking platform.

The development comes against the backdrop of the growing influence of digital financial platforms in Nigeria, where millions of customers use fintech applications for money transfers, payments, savings and other financial transactions. Consequently, unverified reports concerning the stability of a major digital banking platform can generate considerable anxiety among users.

OPay’s clarification therefore appears aimed at preventing panic withdrawals and reassuring customers that its services remain available.

BREAKING: OPay Warns Customers Against Viral Shutdown Message, Threatens Legal Action

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