The Federal Ministry of Environment is strengthening efforts to significantly reduce methane emissions in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, partnering with the Africa Policy Research Institute (APRI) in a stakeholder engagement aimed at tackling the climate, health, and economic impacts of methane.

Speaking at the two-day forum in Abuja, themed “Clearing the Air: Advancing Methane Mitigation and Reduction in Nigeria’s Oil and Gas Sector”, Minister of Environment Balarabe Abbas Lawal — represented by Permanent Secretary Mahmud Adam Kambari — described methane as a potent greenhouse gas driving climate change and respiratory illnesses, while gas flaring and leaks waste valuable resources that could power industries and create jobs.

Strong Policy Commitments

Lawal highlighted Nigeria’s 61% methane reduction target for the oil and gas sector under its 2021 Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) and its recognition as a Global Methane Pledge Champion. Policies like the National Gas Policy and the Nigerian Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme (NGFCP) aim to capture and utilise associated gas instead of flaring.

Efforts include tighter methane leak detection rules enforced by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and investments in satellite and sensor technologies for real-time tracking.

Economic and Environmental Benefits

According to the Minister, methane reduction is not only an environmental imperative but also a driver of economic growth, energy conservation, and job creation. The collaboration with APRI and other stakeholders will prioritise policy implementation, innovative practices, regulatory capacity, and public awareness.

Permanent Secretary Kambari stressed that as Africa’s leading oil and gas producer, Nigeria must take decisive action, noting President Bola Tinubu’s reaffirmation of Nigeria’s commitment to end gas flaring at COP28.

Stakeholder and Research-Driven Action

Dr. Olumide Abimbola, Executive Director of APRI, explained that the institute’s Methane Mitigation Programme focuses on practical, urgent solutions, adding that cutting methane quickly is one of the fastest ways to slow global warming while boosting public health.

The forum brought together regulators, industry leaders, civil society, development partners, and researchers to strategise on bold methane reduction measures. Highlights included the launch of a new methane mitigation report, expert papers, and a panel on strengthening multi-stakeholder collaboration.