Kerosene Price Nears N4,000, Deepening Pressure on Nigerian Households

The price of household kerosene in Nigeria has surged to nearly N4,000 per litre in some parts of the country, worsening the cost-of-living crisis and forcing millions of low-income families to cut back on essential energy use.

Market checks across major cities, including Abuja and Lagos, show that the commodity—commonly used for cooking and lighting—has recorded steady increases in recent weeks, with retailers citing supply shortages and rising distribution costs.

The spike has placed additional strain on households already grappling with high food prices, transport fares and electricity challenges, leaving many to seek alternative, and often less safe, energy sources such as firewood and charcoal.

Traders attribute the rising cost to a combination of factors, including fluctuating foreign exchange rates, high logistics expenses, and limited availability of refined petroleum products in the domestic market. Some marketers also point to reduced supply volumes and weak purchasing power, which have disrupted normal distribution patterns.

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Energy analysts warn that the continued increase in kerosene prices could have broader social and environmental implications, particularly in rural and peri-urban communities where access to cleaner energy alternatives remains limited.

“This trend is concerning because kerosene is still a primary fuel for many Nigerians. When prices rise to this level, it forces households into difficult choices that can affect health and safety,” an industry observer said.

The development comes amid ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector, which have led to the deregulation of fuel pricing and increased exposure to global market dynamics.

While the government has consistently maintained that reforms are necessary to ensure long-term sustainability and attract investment, consumers say the immediate impact has been severe, with little relief in sight.

Efforts to boost local refining capacity, including the ramp-up of domestic refineries, are expected to improve supply and stabilize prices over time. However, stakeholders say tangible benefits may take months to materialize.

For now, many households continue to adjust their daily routines, cutting consumption or switching fuels as they struggle to cope with the rising cost of kerosene and other basic necessities.