The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has announced that Nigeria’s natural gas production is projected to rise to 12.2 billion standard cubic feet per day (bcfd) by 2030. This marks a significant increase of 52.2% from the current output level of 8.0 bcfd.
Key Projects Driving Growth
This increase in natural gas output is attributed to the anticipated completion of several major projects, including the Nigerian LNG Train-7 and Train-8, the Nigeria/Morocco pipeline, and the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) Natural Gas Pipeline Project. These developments are expected to enhance the country’s natural gas capacity significantly.
Transition Fuel and Energy Security
During the Strategic International Conference organized by the Association of Energy Correspondents of Nigeria (NAEC), NUPRC Chief Executive, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, emphasized the role of natural gas as a transition fuel in addressing Nigeria’s challenges related to finance, energy security, and international politics. He stated, “Natural gas production is projected to increase from 8.0 bcfd in 2020 to 12.2 bcfd in 2030,” driven primarily by the identified projects. However, he noted that this increase would still fall short of the projected high case demand of 22.2 bcfd in 2030.
Komolafe also highlighted the importance of integrating hydrocarbon developments with renewable energy initiatives, stating, “In just a decade, the demand landscape could change exponentially, especially if the power sector challenges are resolved.”
Government Initiatives for Gas Development
Minister of Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, reiterated the country’s abundant natural gas resources available for both domestic consumption and international markets. He stated, “It is through gas that we can address our energy access challenges, power our industries, and improve the standard of living for our people.”
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, emphasized the significance of gas in meeting global commitments to reduce carbon emissions while ensuring energy access.
Need for Transparency in Investments
Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, the Executive Secretary of NEITI, stressed the necessity for more investments in the sector, emphasizing that transparency and accountability are crucial for attracting and retaining long-term investments essential to unlock Nigeria’s vast energy resources.
As Nigeria aims for an ambitious increase in its natural gas production, the collaboration between government agencies, industry stakeholders, and investments in infrastructure will play a critical role in achieving these goals while addressing energy challenges and enhancing economic development.