Gas Minister Meets Sector Operators, Seeks Affordable, Accessible LPG

•Blames gas flaring, inadequate infrastructure, others for Nigeria’s underperformance

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Minister of State, Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, yesterday met with major stakeholders in the gas sector, to among others, find ways to make Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), more affordable and accessible to Nigerians.

During the engagement which took place in Abuja, the minister promised that the federal government will intensify efforts to increase upstream gas production and bridge the significant gas supply gaps which continue to hamper the country’s strategic economic sectors.

Ekpo noted that it was imperative to work together to unlock more resources to provide gas for power, for export, domestic use, fostering economic growth and ensuring energy security and eradicating poverty.

“We will prioritise the domestication and penetration of LPG and implement measures to significantly reduce the price of cooking gas for our people, ensuring it becomes more accessible, available, and affordable for our citizens,” the minister stated.

He expressed the federal government’s dedication to the completion of major gas midstream infrastructure and projects, including the AKK Gas Pipeline Project, the OB3 Gas Pipeline Project, and the ANOH Project, as well as enabling flagship projects like the Brass Methanol Project, to enhance the efficiency and capacity of our gas sector.

Stressing that Nigeria is positioned as one of the leading gas-rich countries in the world, he explained, however, that the country has not unlocked the full potential of the valuable resource.

“This underperformance can be attributed to issues such as gas flaring, inadequate infrastructure, pricing concerns, policy and regulatory gaps, limited funding, environmental concerns, the growing urgency for a smooth energy transition as well as a lack of comprehensive gas development blueprint,” he stated.

The minister noted that it was his belief that by acknowledging these realities, Nigeria can proffer solutions.

He expressed confidence that the discussions and deliberations over the course of the engagement will not only lead to developing a comprehensive roadmap but will also strengthen the bonds between the public and private sectors.

 “Together, we shall overcome challenges, unlock opportunities, and build a gas sector that stands the test of time and provides our nation the platform to be the regional industrial hub and powerhouse it is meant to be,”  Ekpo said.

The minister said the purpose of the engagement was to harness the collective wisdom, experiences, and insights of key players in the private sector.

According to him, to secure a sustainable and thriving future for the  gas sector, Nigeria must engage in open and constructive dialogue.

“We must acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead, but equally, we must recognise the opportunities within our grasp. Today, we gather not just as individuals representing various entities, but as a united force with a shared responsibility to chart the path forward for our industry.

“The energy landscape is evolving rapidly, and the decisions we make today will profoundly impact generations to come. We must be strategic, innovative, and adaptable.

“ This engagement provides us with an invaluable opportunity to gain insights into the diverse perspectives that shape our industry. I encourage each of you to share your experiences, expertise, insights, challenges and vision for the future,” he said.

Ekpo emphasised that the government was committed to developing an adaptable roadmap and act decisively to create an environment that fosters growth, innovation, and sustainable development.

Earlier in his opening address, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Nicholas Agbo Ella, said the essence of the meeting was to deliberate on identified problems and proffer solutions to move forward in Nigeria’s quest for achieving its goals.

“As we embark on this journey, it is essential to recognize the diverse expertise and perspectives represented in this room. Our collective vision for a maximum dividend from the gas resources requires the collaborative efforts of industry leaders, policymakers, experts, and advocates.

“The challenges and opportunities within the gas sector are vast, ranging from technological advancements to environmental considerations and economic implications.

“It is through open and transparent discussions, like this that we can uncover synergies, address concerns, and collectively arrive at solutions that not only meet the needs of the present but also ensure a sustainable and prosperous future,” he noted.

According to him, the discourse will guide the ministry’s actions and serve as a testament to its commitment to responsible and effective resource management.

“Let us leverage this unique gathering of minds to inspire innovative solutions, forge strategic partnerships, and collectively shape the future of gas development efforts that will stand the test of time,” he advised.