- Nigeria strengthens gas reforms to meet the global methane standard by 2030.
- Methane reduction supports cleaner industries and improves public health across Africa.
Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to meeting the global methane reduction target, and officials believe the country can achieve this goal by 2030. The global methane reduction target demands a 30 per cent cut in emissions, and Nigeria is positioning itself to deliver measurable progress. Demand for cleaner energy remains high, and the government continues to strengthen gas-sector reforms to support this ambition.
Dr Ekperikpe Ekpo, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), explained the government’s confidence during a roundtable meeting on methane emissions in Abuja. The International Energy Agency hosted the event in partnership with the Ministry of Petroleum Resources and the African Energy Commission. The discussions focused on practical steps that can turn climate commitments into concrete action.
Ekpo emphasised that methane poses significant environmental risks, as it exacerbates global warming. Nigeria has already demonstrated leadership in methane management, and the country became the first in Africa to publish a Methane Action Plan. This progress stems from reduced routine gas flaring, improved mapping of flare locations, and the broader adoption of gas recovery initiatives. Nigeria also advances its Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme and increases the use of LPG in households. These actions support the use of cleaner energy and enhance public health.
The minister highlighted ongoing gas infrastructure projects under the Decade of Gas Initiative. These projects aim to improve energy access, stimulate economic growth and promote environmental responsibility. He emphasised that these efforts strengthen Nigeria’s readiness to meet the global climate goal.
Dr Emeka Obi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, described the roundtable as timely. Global attention now shifts from broad declarations to results that can be measured. Obi stated that methane reduction remains central to Nigeria’s environmental and economic priorities. Nigeria holds substantial natural gas reserves, yet decades of flaring have resulted in significant financial losses and ecological harm. The government now enforces stricter rules under the Petroleum Industry Act to end unauthorised flaring.
Nigeria’s latest Nationally Determined Contribution requires significant greenhouse-gas cuts by 2030. These commitments are embedded within national programmes, policy reforms, and infrastructure projects. Obi urged African countries to view methane reduction as a tool for development, as it can create jobs, expand energy access, and attract new investment.