Ebonyi charcoal dealers record boom as cooking gas costs soar

Charcoal dealers in Ebonyi are experiencing a surge in business as the price of cooking gas skyrockets, making charcoal a more affordable alternative for many households. Josephine Onoh, a prominent dealer, reports that the price of a paint bucket of charcoal ranges from N1,500 to N1,600, while smaller quantities sell for N500 to N600. This trend underscores the growing economic challenges faced by consumers as energy costs rise, shifting reliance back to traditional fuels. The shift has significant implications for both the environment and local economies, highlighting the broader struggles in Nigeria's energy market.