The Federal Government has directed the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to step up engagement with gas producers and marketers to increase imports of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), commonly known as cooking gas, in response to rising prices and supply concerns.

According to a statement from the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, published by Channels Television, marketers have agreed to raise import volumes to support domestic supply and stabilise the market nationwide.

The minister said the recent price increases were driven by foreign exchange volatility, higher logistics costs, infrastructure limitations and global LPG price fluctuations. He added that these pressures reflect broader market conditions rather than policy failure.

The government also said regulatory measures remain in place to ensure locally produced LPG is prioritised for domestic use, while a new Seplat gas facility expected to begin deliveries in July is projected to strengthen supply.

Data from the National Bureau of Statistics showed that the average cost of refilling a 5kg cylinder rose from N7,655.73 in March to N8,706.93 in April, a 13.73 per cent increase. The price of a 12.5kg cylinder also climbed by 13.89 per cent month-on-month during the same period.

Officials say the combination of increased imports, domestic production prioritisation, and upcoming supply expansions is aimed at improving availability and stabilising prices in the coming months.