Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, has said Nigeria’s gas sector reforms recorded in 2025 are already delivering tangible, people-focused benefits, including job creation, improved electricity supply, cleaner cooking solutions, and expanded economic opportunities.
Ekpo stated this while addressing media professionals over the weekend in his hometown, Ika Local Government Area, where he reviewed achievements under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to the minister, Nigeria achieved a historic milestone as domestic gas supply exceeded two billion standard cubic feet per day for the first time, significantly stabilising power generation nationwide.
“For the first time in our history, domestic gas supply crossed two billion cubic feet per day, and this has directly supported improved electricity generation and energy access for homes and industries,” Ekpo said.
He attributed the supply boost partly to the Federal Government’s approval of N185 billion to clear legacy gas debts, which he said restored confidence among gas producers and suppliers.
“By clearing inherited gas debts, government sent a strong signal to investors and suppliers. Confidence returned, and supply to power plants improved across the country,” he added.
On employment and industrial growth, Ekpo disclosed that over 50 gas utilisation projects have been unlocked nationwide, with projections of up to four million direct and indirect jobs by 2030.
“Gas is no longer just a transition fuel; it is now a major driver of jobs, industrialization, and economic inclusion,” the minister said.
He cited flagship projects such as the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano, AKK, Gas Pipeline and the Brass Fertilizer Plant as critical to boosting manufacturing, agriculture, and regional development.
Ekpo also highlighted major progress in clean cooking initiatives, noting that expanded LPG penetration programmes across the six geopolitical zones have reduced dependence on firewood and improved public health.
“We have completed the groundwork for the One Million Homes per Year Clean Cooking Programme, which will commence in 2026 and significantly improve household energy use,” he said.
Speaking on benefits to Akwa Ibom State and the South-South, the minister pointed to the groundbreaking of a 10 MMSCF/D CNG Mother Station in Esit Eket and the signing of a $3.5 billion gas infrastructure and industrialization MoU in Uyo.
“These projects will attract investment, create jobs, and deepen gas-based industrialization in the region,” Ekpo noted.
He further said Nigeria’s leadership role in the Gas Exporting Countries Forum, GECF, has enhanced the country’s global profile and strengthened investor confidence.
Ekpo assured that the Federal Government remains committed to consolidating the gains recorded in 2025, stressing that natural gas will continue to serve as a catalyst for energy security, inclusive growth, and national development.
He explained that the media engagement was part of efforts to promote transparency and keep Nigerians informed on policies shaping the energy sector.
