oc2much@yahoo.com1. Overview
In Nigeria, cooking gas (LPG) is widely used in households, restaurants, and small eateries. However, frequent gas shortages, inconvenient refill stations, and erratic power supply create a gap for home-based micro-refill businesses.
A home gas refill micro-station allows you to refill empty gas cylinders at your premises or deliver to customers’ homes. This business is profitable, low-capital, and highly scalable, with potential earnings of ₦250,000–₦300,000 monthly.
Unlike large-scale industrial gas suppliers, you focus on local neighborhoods, providing convenience and reliability—two key factors that attract loyal clients.
2. Market Opportunity
- Target customers: Households, local restaurants, street food vendors, small eateries.
- Trend: Rising urban population and dependence on LPG for cooking.
- Competition: Mostly large refill stations; micro-stations are rare in residential areas.
- Growth potential: High, especially in urban and peri-urban neighborhoods.
Many consumers are willing to pay extra for doorstep delivery or faster refills. Offering reliable service and flexible payment options ensures repeat business.
3. Startup Cost Breakdown (₦)
| Item | Cost (₦) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| LPG gas cylinder (20kg) | 25,000 | Initial stock |
| Gas regulator & safety equipment | 20,000 | Includes valve, hose, and safety fittings |
| Transport (tricycle or motorcycle) | 50,000 | For door-to-door delivery |
| Storage setup | 30,000 | Secure, ventilated area in home |
| Marketing & branding | 10,000 | Flyers, social media ads |
| Miscellaneous | 15,000 | Safety inspection, electricity, minor repairs |
| Total Startup Cost | 150,000 |
Tip: Start with a few cylinders and reinvest profits to scale gradually.
4. How to Earn ₦300,000 Monthly
The business model revolves around selling and refilling gas cylinders.
- Pricing structure:
- Refill a 20kg cylinder at ₦6,500–₦7,500, depending on market rates.
- Purchase cost per cylinder refill: ₦5,000
- Revenue calculation:
- Refill 20 cylinders/week × ₦1,500 profit per cylinder = ₦30,000/week
- Monthly profit: ₦120,000
- Add delivery fees (₦500 per trip) for 100 deliveries/month = ₦50,000
- Total monthly income: ₦170,000–₦300,000, depending on volume
- Scaling:
- Increase cylinder stock
- Hire delivery staff
- Partner with restaurants or small eateries for bulk contracts
5. Step-by-Step Business Guide
- Learn safety regulations: Understand LPG handling, storage, and local safety laws.
- Acquire stock: Purchase cylinders and regulators from reputable suppliers.
- Set up storage space: Secure and ventilated area to prevent accidents.
- Market your service: Flyers, WhatsApp groups, neighborhood announcements, and social media.
- Offer delivery service: Door-to-door delivery increases convenience and premium pricing.
- Track inventory and sales: Keep accurate records to avoid shortages or overselling.
- Expand gradually: Increase cylinder stock, hire delivery staff, or partner with eateries.
6. Challenges & Tips
Challenges:
- Safety risks of handling LPG
- Supply shortages from distributors
- Transport logistics for door-to-door service
Tips:
- Train staff on safety and emergency response
- Build relationships with multiple distributors for consistent supply
- Start with one neighborhood before scaling
- Offer loyalty programs to keep clients returning
7. Profit Projection
| Metric | Value (₦) |
|---|---|
| Monthly revenue | 250,000–300,000 |
| Operating costs | 100,000 |
| Net monthly profit | 150,000–200,000 |
| Break-even timeline | 1 month |
| ROI first month | 100–120% |
With multiple delivery routes and bulk contracts with restaurants, net profit can rise to ₦400,000+ per month within 3–6 months.
8. Feasibility Verdict
Feasibility: Medium–High
- Moderate startup cost but high earning potential
- Consistent demand in urban areas
- Scalable with delivery and bulk contracts
- Safety precautions are mandatory
9. Conclusion
A home gas refill micro-station is a practical, low-capital, and high-demand business in Nigeria. By providing convenient delivery, ensuring safety, and building a loyal client base, you can earn ₦250,000–₦300,000 monthly while helping solve the frequent LPG supply problem.
With proper scaling, training, and customer service, this business can become a long-term, profitable venture for Nigerians seeking reliable daily income.
