- NUPRC states that existing frameworks, such as the National Gas Policy and the National Gas Expansion Programme, are significant steps toward decarbonisation.
- Nigeria has implemented the PIA for regulatory reforms, Pi-CNG to promote cleaner fuel, the Presidential Executive Order 40 and the Nigerian Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme to attract investment and enhance infrastructure.
Nigeria is advancing a dual strategy of harnessing its abundant oil and gas reserves while committing to decarbonisation for long-term sustainability. The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) reaffirmed this approach at an event in Abuja themed “Towards an Energy-Secured and Decarbonised Future.”
NUPRC’s Chief Executive, Gbenga Komolafe, highlighted that Nigeria’s vast hydrocarbon resources—37.5 billion barrels of crude oil and 209.26 trillion cubic feet of natural gas—hold life indices of 70 and 90 years, respectively.
Given that the oil and gas sector contributes nearly 90% of Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings and 70% of national revenues, he emphasised the need for a “just transition” that balances economic growth with environmental sustainability.
Komolafe noted that natural gas is central to Nigeria’s energy transition, positioning it as a key transitional fuel. He cited existing frameworks such as the National Gas Policy (2017), the National Gas Expansion Programme (2021), and the Decade of Gas Initiative (2021–2030) as major steps toward reducing emissions while maximising gas utilisation.
To attract investment and enhance infrastructure, Nigeria has implemented strategic initiatives, including:
- The Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) for regulatory reforms
- The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Initiative (Pi-CNG) to promote cleaner fuel
- The Presidential Executive Order 40 (2024) to support gas expansion
- The Nigerian Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme (NGFCP) to curb environmental pollution
Additionally, the NUPRC launched new guidelines for upstream oil and gas decarbonisation and carbon management, reinforcing its commitment to a sustainable energy future.
While infrastructure gaps and investment constraints persist, Nigeria’s strategic policies aim to drive industrialisation, expand energy access, and position the country as a leader in global energy transformation.