The Nigerian gas sector is experiencing a surge in investments, with over $5 billion attracted as of 2024. This significant influx of capital has been highlighted by Mr. Akachukwu Nwokedi, the President of the Nigerian Gas Association (NGA), during a recent news conference held in Lagos on April 12, 2025. The announcement comes ahead of the 29th World Gas Conference (WGC 2025), which is scheduled to take place from May 19 to May 23 in Beijing, China.
Nwokedi explained that these investments reflect growing global confidence in Nigeria’s energy transition strategy. He stated, "These investments are a clear signal that Nigeria is making tangible progress in becoming a key player in the global gas market." The investments span critical segments of the gas value chain, including infrastructure development, floating liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities, gas processing plants, and domestic utilization projects.
The NGA president credited the influx of investment to recent policy reforms introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. These reforms include new Executive Orders on oil and gas operations, advancements on the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) gas pipeline, and the implementation of the Decentralised Gas Distribution Framework. Nwokedi commended 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 facilitating commercialization and improving the domestic pricing framework for gas.
He emphasized the importance of gas in Nigeria's energy strategy, noting that the country has 209 trillion cubic feet of proven reserves and the potential to reach 600 TCF. Nwokedi remarked, "With 209 trillion cubic feet of proven reserves and the potential to reach 600 TCF, Nigeria is positioning gas as the cornerstone of its energy transition strategy. We must ensure the transition works for us. Gas is our best option to combat energy poverty while reducing emissions."
At the upcoming WGC 2025, Nigeria will have a dedicated Pavilion that aims to showcase the country’s progress in the gas sector, highlight investment opportunities, and promote strategic goals under the “Decade of Gas” initiative. Nwokedi described the Pavilion as a strategic platform, stating, "This platform is not just symbolic; it’s strategic. It signifies Nigeria’s readiness to take its rightful place in the global gas ecosystem—not only as a resource-rich nation but also as a prime investment destination."
The Nigeria Pavilion will serve as a hub for government leaders, industry stakeholders, and international partners, featuring major projects across the gas value chain. It will also showcase Nigerian Content Champions, facilitate top-tier networking opportunities, and foster critical global conversations on energy transition and sustainability.
In addition to promoting investment in gas infrastructure, processing, and distribution projects, the Pavilion aims to encourage international collaboration in financing, technology, and off-take agreements. Nwokedi reiterated the NGA's commitment to supporting methane reduction and enhancing Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) safety, commending NNPC Ltd. and its leadership under Mr. Bayo Ojulari for championing transformative gas initiatives.
As the global energy landscape evolves, Nwokedi's statements underscore Nigeria's ambition to leverage its vast gas resources not only for economic growth but also for sustainable, low-carbon development. He concluded, "This is not just about gas. It is about jobs, industry, cleaner energy, and national transformation. Nigeria is ready. NGA is ready. WGC2025 is our global stage. Let’s take it—together."
