Nigeria is targeting a daily gas output of 10 billion standard cubic feet (BSCFD) by 2030, as part of its strategy to strengthen energy security and drive economic growth.
Dr. Ekperikpe Ekpo, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), shared this ambition during his keynote address at the ninth Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES) 2026 on Tuesday in Abuja. The summit carried the theme “Energy for Peace and Prosperity: Securing Our Shared Future.”
According to the minister, Nigeria’s gas production has been steadily increasing, averaging between 7.5 and 7.6 BSCFD in 2025. For the first time, domestic gas supply surpassed two BSCFD, boosting availability for power generation, industrial use, and households.
Ekpo highlighted efforts to reduce gas flaring, noting that Nigeria has achieved some of the lowest flaring levels in recent years. This aligns with the country’s pledge to eliminate routine gas flaring by 2030.
Investor confidence in the sector has strengthened, he said, pointing to key upstream gas projects reaching Final Investment Decisions (FIDs) under the clearer regulatory framework of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
Midstream and downstream developments, including pipelines, processing facilities, and gas-to-power projects, are improving domestic utilization, job creation, and industrial stability.
“Under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, expanding domestic gas infrastructure and enhancing Nigeria’s role in regional and global markets remain top priorities,” the minister added.
Ekpo emphasized that building a resilient energy sector requires collaboration among governments, investors, host communities, civil society, and development partners. He stressed that Nigeria’s approach balances climate responsibility with economic growth, leveraging natural gas to expand energy access, industrial development, and employment opportunities.
“Our energy strategy supports a just and inclusive transition while addressing Africa’s unique challenges, such as energy poverty and limited industrial capacity,” Ekpo said, underlining the role of natural gas as a cornerstone of the nation’s industrial and economic progress.
