By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Federal Government on Monday directed regulatory and security agencies to crack down on LPG hoarding, diversion, and illegal storage across Nigeria. The directive came from the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, during an emergency stakeholder meeting in Abuja. The meeting addressed the recent rise in cooking gas prices and explored measures to stabilise supply, protect consumers, and restore market confidence.
Government Moves to Stabilise LPG Prices
Ekpo described the increase in cooking gas prices as a major concern for households and businesses. He stressed that the Federal Government remains committed to easing the financial burden on Nigerians.
According to him, the government has introduced urgent measures to improve supply and prevent market manipulation.
“We have directed the NMDPRA to intensify monitoring, engage operators, and work with security agencies to discourage hoarding and eliminate artificial scarcity,” he said.
NMDPRA to Strengthen Market Oversight
The Minister instructed the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to strengthen market surveillance.
He also directed the agency to develop a transparent pricing framework and sanction operators who engage in activities that distort the LPG market.
Furthermore, the NMDPRA will collaborate with the Department of State Services (DSS), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Nigeria Police Force to enforce compliance.
The partnership aims to stop illegal storage, prevent diversion, and ensure the smooth movement of LPG nationwide.
Supply Boost Expected from New Gas Facilities
Meanwhile, Ekpo disclosed that marketers are ready to increase LPG imports to improve availability.
In addition, new domestic supplies are expected from facilities such as the Seplat gas plant.
He expressed confidence that these developments will improve supply levels in the coming weeks and support price stability.
Government Explores Local LPG Blending Initiative
To reduce dependence on imports, the Federal Government is considering a local LPG blending initiative.
The proposed arrangement will involve Nigeria LNG Limited, domestic gas producers, and depot owners.
Officials believe the initiative will strengthen local supply chains and create a more stable pricing environment.
“There is no cause for panic. The Government remains committed to ensuring adequate domestic gas supply,” Ekpo stated.
NMDPRA Warns Operators Against Price Manipulation
Speaking at the meeting, NMDPRA Authority Chief Executive, Rabiu Umar, revealed that the regulator has launched an enforcement campaign across the LPG value chain.
He warned operators against practices that lead to excessive price increases.
“We are going to be much more aggressive in ensuring that no factor keeps prices at excessively high levels,” Umar said.
He added that the Authority expects improved supply conditions and lower LPG prices before the end of next month.
Industry Stakeholders Support Government Intervention
The emergency meeting attracted key stakeholders from across the gas industry.
Participants included representatives of the Nigerian Gas Association (NGA), Major Energy Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN), and the Nigerian Association of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers (NALPGAM).
The stakeholders discussed practical solutions to improve supply, enhance transparency, and ensure affordable cooking gas for consumers.
