Nigeria's gas sector is witnessing a remarkable surge in investments, with over $5 billion recorded in the past year, according to the Nigerian Gas Association (NGA). This growth comes as the NGA prepares for its strategic participation at the 29th World Gas Conference (WGC2025), scheduled for May 19 to 23, 2025, in Beijing, China.
During a media briefing in Lagos, NGA President Mr. Akachukwu Nwokedi outlined the scope of these investments, which encompass infrastructure development, floating LNG, gas processing, and domestic gas utilization. Nwokedi emphasized that Nigeria is ready to showcase its advancements and potential at the global conference, where the country will host a Nigerian Pavilion aimed at attracting further investment.
"This platform is not just symbolic. It is strategic. It signals Nigeria’s readiness to take its rightful place in the global gas ecosystem, not just as a resource-rich nation, but as a serious investment destination," Nwokedi stated. The pavilion will serve as a venue for high-level engagement between government representatives, private sector stakeholders, and international partners, spotlighting major gas projects while promoting Nigeria's "Decade of Gas" initiative.
Nigeria currently boasts 209 trillion cubic feet of proven gas reserves, with an estimated potential of up to 600 trillion cubic feet. The NGA has highlighted that gas remains central to Nigeria’s ongoing energy transition strategy, which is crucial for tackling energy poverty while lowering emissions. "We must insist the transition works for us," Nwokedi asserted, underlining the importance of gas as a cleaner energy source.
In addition to the NGA's initiatives, former Minister of Power, Prof. Barth Nnaji, has called for Nigeria to aggressively pursue investments in its natural gas sector. He stressed the need to reinstate previously suspended Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) to ensure the country's energy needs are met. Nnaji, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Geometric Power Group, pointed out that Nigeria ranks ninth globally in natural gas reserves, yet struggles to adequately power its 24 gas-fired power plants.
"While efforts to export gas to Europe are commendable, domestic need must come first—because charity begins at home," Nnaji remarked, highlighting the paradox of Nigeria's vast resources juxtaposed against its energy challenges.
The NGA's recent achievements are complemented by key reforms initiated by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. These reforms include new executive orders on oil and gas, the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) pipeline, and a decentralized gas distribution framework aimed at expanding energy access across the country.
The NGA praised regulatory bodies such as the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) for their roles in implementing a revised domestic gas pricing structure and supporting gas commercialization.
As Nigeria prepares for its prominent role at WGC2025, the NGA aims to leverage the event to promote opportunities across the country’s gas value chain, supporting foreign partnerships in areas such as infrastructure development, technology transfer, and off-take agreements.
Nwokedi reiterated, "This is not just about gas. It is about jobs, industry, cleaner energy, and national transformation." He expressed confidence in Nigeria’s readiness to engage with the global community, stating, "Nigeria is ready. NGA is ready. WGC2025 is our global stage. Let’s take it—together."
As the world increasingly shifts towards cleaner energy solutions, Nigeria's strategic focus on natural gas positions it as a key player in the global energy landscape. The upcoming World Gas Conference will not only spotlight Nigeria's achievements but also its ambitions to become a leader in sustainable energy development.
The NGA's participation in the WGC2025 reflects a broader commitment to fostering international cooperation and investment in Nigeria’s gas sector. By showcasing the country’s potential and ongoing projects, the NGA aims to attract global interest and support for Nigeria's energy transition.
As Nigeria stands on the brink of a transformative era in its gas sector, the emphasis on sustainable practices and strategic investments is expected to pave the way for significant advancements in energy access and economic growth. The NGA's efforts, combined with the government's reforms, are set to redefine Nigeria's role in the global energy market and ensure that the benefits of its vast gas resources are felt both locally and internationally.
