Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, stated that the government is committed to transforming Nigeria into a globally competitive, gas-powered economy by unlocking its vast natural gas reserves. Speaking at the Offshore Technology Conference in Houston, he emphasized the need for unified action to harness Nigeria’s 210 trillion cubic feet of proven gas reserves—the largest in Africa and among the top ten globally.
Minister Ekperikpe Ekpo emphasized that Nigeria’s vast gas reserves must drive sustainable development, job creation, and energy security. He praised PETAN for promoting innovation and highlighted the Decade of Gas initiative as key to national transformation. The government is investing in gas infrastructure and removing barriers to industrial use, with incentives for sectors like fertiliser production and modular gas hubs.
Minister Ekperikpe Ekpo highlighted initiatives like Floating LNG and the Nigeria–Equatorial Guinea Gas Pipeline to commercialize stranded gas and boost exports. He emphasized the role of technology, innovation, and R&D in driving transformation and called for stronger collaboration across sectors. To attract global investment, he stressed the need for bankable, ESG-compliant gas projects. He also praised regulatory agencies NMDPRA and NUPRC for enhancing investor confidence through transparency and efficiency.
Minister Ekpo urged local companies to lead Nigeria’s gas revolution, stating the future isn’t just for multinationals but for all capable Nigerian entrepreneurs. He emphasized that only collective action can turn the country’s vast gas potential into national and global prosperity.
