Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Nigeria’s Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, has declared that gas-to-methanol projects represent the country’s new frontier for prosperity, positioning methanol as a game-changer for industrialization, exports, and job creation.
Speaking at the Niger Delta Oil and Gas Investment and Security Summit in Calabar, Cross River State, the Minister stressed that methanol’s versatility across multiple industries makes it central to Nigeria’s energy transition and economic diversification agenda.
“Gas-to-methanol projects represent Nigeria’s new frontier for prosperity. Methanol’s versatility, from plastics to pharmaceuticals and even as a clean fuel, makes it a true game-changer for our economy,” Ekpo stated.
The Minister highlighted ongoing progress on the $3.6 billion Brass Methanol Plant in Bayelsa State, noting that the project was moving steadily toward Final Investment Decision, FID.
According to him, such investments will unlock Nigeria’s vast gas reserves, create industrial hubs, and stimulate downstream opportunities in value-added production.
He further identified Cross River State as a strategic player in this emerging sector, citing its location and industrial base as advantages.
“Cross River State, with its strategic location and industrial base, is well positioned to become a hub for methanol production and gas-based industrialization,” he added.
However, Ekpo warned that the benefits of methanol-driven growth would only materialise if Nigeria confronts oil theft and pipeline sabotage, which continue to undermine investor confidence and national revenue.
“Oil theft and sabotage rob us of growth and discourage investment. This is why host communities must see real benefits, jobs, schools, clinics, infrastructure, and dividends from Host Community Development Trusts,” the Minister said.
He emphasised that genuine community development was key to securing critical oil and gas infrastructure.
“When they do, they will become protectors, not saboteurs, of our assets,” Ekpo noted.
The Minister concluded his speech by urging stakeholders to work together to ensure that Nigeria’s abundant gas wealth is converted into inclusive prosperity.
“Together, let us ensure that Nigeria’s abundant gas wealth is transformed into jobs, industries, and prosperity for all,” he affirmed.
The Calabar summit brought together policymakers, investors, community leaders, and security stakeholders to discuss pathways for sustainable investment and asset protection in the Niger Delta’s oil and gas sector.
