Yemisi Izuora
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, has said that Nigeria is taking giant steps towards enhancing investments in the midstream sector and that gas exploration is at the top of the agenda.
The Minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to harnessing its vast natural gas resources to power economic growth and sustainable development across Africa.
Speaking at the second edition of Asharami Square, an initiative of Sahara Group held in Lagos, the Minister described natural gas as a “transformational fuel” critical to addressing the continent’s energy poverty and accelerating its transition to cleaner energy sources.
Commending Sahara Group for creating a platform that bridges the gap between policy and public discourse, Ekpo who was represented by his Senior Technical Adviser Engr. Abel NSA, highlighted the importance of engaging the media in shaping the narrative around energy transition and sustainability.
“The theme of this year’s edition, Harnessing Gas for Africa’s Sustainable Future, is both timely and urgent,” Ekpo stated. “Africa is rich in natural gas reserves, yet millions remain without access to clean, affordable energy. This paradox must be resolved, not later, but now.”
The Minister pointed out that while Africa holds over 7% of the world’s natural gas reserves—primarily in Nigeria, Algeria, Egypt, and Mozambique—the continent consumes less than 5 per cent of global gas output. He emphasized that closing this gap presents a significant opportunity for economic transformation.
In Nigeria, the federal government is implementing the Decade of Gas initiative under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to leverage natural gas to lift millions out of poverty, diversify the economy, and provide cleaner energy alternatives.
“Harnessing gas goes beyond good intentions. It requires bold investments in infrastructure—pipelines to connect supply with demand, virtual pipelines to reach underserved areas, and financing frameworks that attract private sector participation,” Ekpo said.
He cited ongoing efforts such as the LPG penetration programme for clean cooking, expansion of the West African Gas Pipeline, and the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline project as key examples of initiatives aimed at maximizing gas utilisation both domestically and regionally.
The Minister also called on local and international investors to partner with Nigeria in expanding gas infrastructure, stressing that “no molecule of our gas should remain stranded.”
Highlighting the importance of a strong regulatory framework, Ekpo praised the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which he said has enhanced transparency, improved returns on investment, and boosted investor confidence in the Nigerian petroleum sector.
“The Ministry of Petroleum Resources (Gas), working closely with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), remains dedicated to creating a stable and innovation-friendly policy environment,” he added.
Turning to the media, Ekpo underscored the critical role of journalists in shaping public perception and driving policy action. He urged the media to focus on stories that highlight the human impact of energy access, linking gas to jobs, education, healthcare, and improved quality of life.
“Africa cannot afford to be a passive participant in the global energy transition. We must shape our own narrative and define our own path,” he stressed. “Natural gas gives us the flexibility to meet growing energy demands while reducing emissions and preparing for greater renewable energy integration.”
He concluded by thanking Sahara Group for its role in creating Asharami Square, describing the platform as not just a conversation starter but a catalyst for informed action, strategic investment, and inclusive progress.
“The Ministry remains committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that gas is not just seen as a resource but as a legacy for future generations,” Ekpo affirmed.