Inflation in Nigeria’s largest economy has hit a record high, making regular cooking gas unaffordable for many. With inflation reaching over 27 per cent in the past year, according to the Nigerian National Bureau of Statistics, citizens are struggling to afford this essential household item. However, a cheaper and renewable alternative called bioethanol is rapidly gaining popularity in the country.
Adeyemi, a resident of Nigeria, expressed her relief at being able to avoid the high costs of cooking gas, which can add up to around N1,000 per kilogram. She has joined the growing number of Nigerians who have switched to bioethanol gel for their cooking needs. A litre of biofuel costs just over $1, significantly lower than traditional cooking gas.
Users of bioethanol gel have reported being able to cook more food with it compared to cooking gas. This affordability factor is a major driving force behind its surging popularity among Nigerian households. Moreover, the gel provides a cleaner alternative for kitchens where families are exposed to the health risks associated with wood smoke and other more polluting fuels.
According to the World Health Organization, more than 93,000 women die in Nigeria each year from diseases caused by domestic air pollution. The use of bioethanol gel significantly reduces harmful emissions into the atmosphere compared to traditional fuels. This has important implications for the health and well-being of Nigerian families, as exposure to harmful pollutants can be mitigated.
Furthermore, the benefits of bioethanol extend beyond individual households. If all households in Nigeria switched to using bioethanol for cooking, it could reduce carbon dioxide emissions by over four million tonnes, according to the United Nations. This would contribute significantly to Nigeria’s efforts in combatting climate change and promoting sustainability.
Users of bioethanol have praised its performance, highlighting its positive impact on cooking experiences. “It doesn’t darken your pot when you are using it, you feel comfortable, you don’t even need to stress. Even the smell, the odor it brings out, you’ll love your cooking,” said Adeyemi, a 43-year-old user of bioethanol gel.
As bioethanol continues to gain popularity in Nigeria, not only is it providing an affordable alternative to cooking gas, but it is also offering a cleaner and healthier option for households. With the potential to reduce carbon dioxide emissions significantly, bioethanol is poised to play a crucial role in Nigeria’s transition towards a more sustainable future.
