Tensions are rising in Nigeria’s domestic gas market as petroleum marketers voice strong opposition to the Dangote Group’s move to drastically reduce the price of cooking gas across the country. The protest comes amid reports that the company, through its massive refinery and petrochemical complex, plans to flood the market with cheaper liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
Marketers argue that while the move may appear consumer-friendly on the surface, it poses a serious threat to smaller players in the industry who fear being priced out of the market. According to them, Dangote’s sheer scale and financial muscle could trigger unfair competition and lead to monopolistic control.
“The proposed price slash is not in the interest of a free and fair market,” said a spokesman for the Nigerian Association of LPG Marketers (NALPGAM). “This could cripple the businesses of independent marketers who lack the capacity to compete at such margins.”
Dangote Group, however, maintains that its goal is to make cooking gas more affordable and accessible to millions of Nigerians. A company official said the refinery’s full operation is set to significantly boost domestic supply, reduce import dependency, and lower retail prices.
Consumer rights groups have welcomed the development, saying that lower prices could ease the financial burden on households struggling with high living costs.
Analysts say the disagreement highlights the tension between market liberalization and protecting smaller players. While competition may benefit consumers in the short term, the government is being urged to ensure regulations are in place to prevent market domination and preserve industry balance.
The Ministry of Petroleum Resources has yet to issue a formal response but is reportedly engaging stakeholders to mediate the brewing dispute.
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