The Nigerian Gas Association (NGA) has hailed over $5 billion in new investments in the country’s gas sector, calling it a significant indicator of global confidence in Nigeria’s gas-led energy transition strategy. The announcement was made by NGA President, Akachukwu Nwokedi, during a press briefing in Lagos ahead of the 29th World Gas Conference (WGC) 2025 in Beijing, China, which will take place from May 19 to May 23.
According to Nwokedi, these investments, recorded as of 2024, span critical areas of the gas value chain, including infrastructure development, floating liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities, gas processing plants, and domestic utilization projects. He emphasized that this surge in investment demonstrates Nigeria’s growing position as a key player in the global gas market.
“These investments are a clear signal that Nigeria is making tangible progress in becoming a key player in the global gas market,” Nwokedi stated.
The NGA President attributed the recent influx of investments to policy reforms initiated under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. He cited the establishment of Executive Orders targeting oil and gas operations, significant progress on the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) gas pipeline, and the rollout of the Decentralized Gas Distribution Framework as major contributing factors.
Nwokedi also praised the roles of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) for their regulatory support in creating a conducive investment climate. He highlighted how these agencies have improved the commercial viability of gas, streamlined domestic pricing, and boosted investor confidence.
Additionally, the NGA President commended NNPC Ltd. and its leadership under Bayo Ojulari for advancing transformative initiatives, including efforts to reduce methane emissions and improve safety standards in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) usage.
Nwokedi emphasized that Nigeria’s vast natural gas reserves—currently estimated at 209 trillion cubic feet (TCF) with the potential to reach 600 TCF—position gas as the cornerstone of the nation’s energy transition strategy. He reiterated that natural gas remains the most viable solution to address energy poverty while aligning with the country’s commitment to reducing emissions.
“Gas is our best option to combat energy poverty while reducing emissions,” Nwokedi said, stressing the importance of ensuring the transition works for Nigeria.
As part of its efforts to showcase Nigeria’s progress in the gas sector, Nwokedi announced the establishment of a “Nigeria Pavilion” at the upcoming WGC 2025. This platform will highlight Nigeria’s achievements, provide visibility for local players, and promote investment opportunities in line with the government’s “Decade of Gas” agenda.
“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,” he noted.
The Nigeria Pavilion will feature government officials, industry stakeholders, and international investors, and will spotlight major gas projects in infrastructure, processing, and distribution. It aims to foster partnerships in financing, technology transfer, and off-take agreements, while also promoting job creation, industrialization, and access to cleaner energy.
In conclusion, Nwokedi highlighted the broader economic benefits of Nigeria’s gas-led growth, noting that the country’s gas strategy is poised to bring about national transformation and contribute to the creation of a more sustainable, energy-efficient future.
