Ekpo Says Gas Reforms Delivered Jobs, Power Stability and Cleaner Cooking in 2025
By Naija Enquirer Staff
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, says reforms in Nigeria’s gas sector recorded in 2025 are already delivering tangible, people-focused benefits, including job creation, improved electricity supply, cleaner cooking solutions and expanded economic opportunities.
Ekpo made the remarks 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.
Domestic Gas Supply Milestone
According to the minister, Nigeria achieved a historic milestone in 2025 as domestic gas supply exceeded two billion standard cubic feet per day for the first time, helping to stabilise 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 increase partly to the Federal Government’s approval of ₦185 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.
Jobs, Industry and Infrastructure
On employment and industrial growth, Ekpo disclosed that more than 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, industrialisation 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.
Cleaner Cooking and Public Health
Ekpo also highlighted 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 outcomes.
“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.
Regional Impact and Global Profile
Speaking on benefits to Akwa Ibom State and the wider South-South region, the minister pointed to the groundbreaking of a 10 million standard cubic feet per day CNG Mother Station in Esit Eket and the signing of a $3.5 billion gas infrastructure and industrialisation memorandum of understanding in Uyo.
“These projects will attract investment, create jobs and deepen gas-based industrialisation 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 ongoing efforts to promote transparency and keep Nigerians informed about policies shaping the energy sector.
