Ebonyi charcoal dealers see sales boom amid soaring cooking gas prices

Charcoal vendors in Ebonyi state, Nigeria, are experiencing a surge in sales as the cost of cooking gas continues to climb. Josephine Onoh, a dealer at Abakaliki International Market, confirmed the boom, noting that a paint bucket of charcoal now fetches between 1,500 and 1,600 naira. Smaller portions, sold in nylon bags, range from 500 to 600 naira.

This shift towards charcoal is a direct consequence of the escalating prices of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), commonly known as cooking gas. As gas becomes less accessible for many households, charcoal emerges as a more economical option for daily cooking needs. The increased demand reflects a broader economic pressure on consumers, forcing them to seek cheaper alternatives for essential commodities.

The trend highlights the economic challenges faced by many Nigerians, where fluctuating global energy prices and domestic economic conditions directly impact household budgets. The charcoal market's revival, while beneficial for dealers, underscores the need for affordable and stable energy sources for the general population.

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a paint bucket of charcoal currently sells for between N1,500 and N1,600, while smaller quantities measured in nylon bags sell for between N500 and N600.