Urban Nigerians Turn to Charcoal and Firewood Amid Rising Cooking Gas Prices

With the cost of cooking gas skyrocketing, many urban Nigerians are reverting to more traditional and affordable cooking methods—charcoal and firewood. Once primarily used in rural and semi-urban areas, these alternatives are becoming common in cities as families struggle to make ends meet.

The Rising Costs of Cooking Gas

Cooking gas, once celebrated for its convenience and efficiency, has become unaffordable for many households. A 3kg cylinder of gas now costs around ₦4,000, compared to charcoal, which sells for ₦500 to ₦1,000 per portion, or firewood, available for ₦700 per bundle of four sticks.

For those living on tight budgets, the economic realities make the choice clear: affordability takes precedence over convenience.

Urban Households Adapt to Firewood and Charcoal

A growing number of city dwellers are embracing firewood and charcoal, repurposing these traditional fuels to meet modern cooking needs. Many are sourcing firewood from construction sites, bushes, and discarded wood, significantly cutting costs.

Mr. Yekini Abdullahi, a vulcanizer, shared his experience:

“Cooking gas is no longer sustainable for us. Although charcoal is cheaper, we decided to source firewood from nearby bushes and building sites. We use coal pots for cooking, and so far, it’s been effective.”

Similarly, Mrs. Oluchi Udechukwu, a resident in a bustling city, described her resourcefulness:

“I collect wood from construction sites and dry it for cooking. It saves me from spending on gas or kerosene. When necessary, I even venture into bushes for firewood.”

For many, the shift is not just an economic decision but a survival strategy in these challenging times.

A Broader National Trend

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) Nigeria Residential Energy Demand-Side Survey, about 39% of households collect firewood for fuel, with 55% sourcing branches, stems, and trees. These fuels are used for domestic, agricultural, and commercial purposes.

This trend highlights the growing energy poverty in Nigeria, where families are forced to rely on accessible yet unsustainable resources for daily living.

Implications for the Environment

While firewood and charcoal are cost-effective, their increased usage poses environmental concerns. Deforestation and air pollution are significant risks, particularly as urban households join rural communities in fuelwood collection.

Conclusion

The rising cost of cooking gas has redefined household energy choices in Nigeria, pushing many urban residents to adapt traditional methods. While effective in the short term, these solutions raise questions about sustainability and long-term environmental impact. Addressing this growing energy crisis will require government intervention and innovative solutions to make modern energy options accessible and affordable.