When it comes to cooking in Nigeria, most people want the cheapest and most reliable option. The two most popular choices are cooking gas (LPG) and electric cookers. But which one really saves you more money?
1. Cooking Gas (LPG)
Cooking gas is widely used in Nigerian homes. The common cylinder sizes are 3kg, 6kg, 12.5kg, and 50kg.
Some of the advantages of Cooking Gas are:
1. It heats food very fast.
2. You can use it anytime – no power outage problem.
3. Almost available in many locations and communities.
Before we go into the difference and proberly recommend the best option for you. Let's look at the cost of Cooking Gas.
As of 2025, 12.5kg of gas refill costs between ₦12,000 – ₦15,500 depending on your city. On average, a family of 4 using gas every day spends ₦7,000 – ₦18,000 per month on refills.
2. Electric Cooker
Electric cookers use PHCN (NEPA) light or prepaid meters. Some are single burners, others double.
Some of the advantages of Electric Cooker are;
1. No need to buy or carry gas cylinders.
2. It is safer if handled well.
3. It can be very cheaper if you already have stable power and prepaid meter.
Now, let's look at the cost of Electric cooker. Am ideal watts an electric cookers use, is about 1000 – 2000 watts per hour. On prepaid, this can cost around ₦20 – ₦40 per cooking session (1–2 hours). In one month, depending on usage, a family can spend around ₦12,000 – ₦18,000 on electricity for cooking.
Which Is Cheaper?
If you live in an area with stable and cheap electricity, electric cookers are cheaper than buying cooking gas. But if your area has frequent blackouts or high prepaid charges, cooking gas is more reliable, though slightly more expensive.
My final verdict - Cooking Gas = More reliable, works anytime, but costs a bit more monthly. While electric cooker is cheaper if you have stable light, but useless during blackouts.
So, the cheaper option depends on your location and electricity supply.
> If you want to save money and your area has good electricity, go for electric cooker.
> If you want reliability anytime, day or night, stick to cooking gas.