FG in a Move to Review Oil Firm’s Plans on Gas Flaring

Dr. Iziaq Salako, the Minister of State for the Environment, announced that the ministry will begin a regular audit of foreign and domestic oil companies' plans through the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency to ensure that they stay on track to end routine gas flaring by 2030.

Salako made this statement on Tuesday at the national stakeholders' engagement meeting in Abuja on the mitigation and reduction of methane in Nigeria's oil and gas sector.

Goals for preventing climate change and the health and welfare of present and future generations are seriously threatened by methane, a potent greenhouse gas with a much higher earning potential than carbon dioxide.

Reducing methane emissions will boost climate action and positively affect public health, food security, and economic growth, particularly in the oil and gas industry.

Salako says the nation is taking proactive measures to reduce methane emissions.

He noted, "Collaborative efforts of government institutions have led to the development of methane guidelines. In addition, the Federal Ministry of Environment, through the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency, will commence the periodic review of the plans of international and indigenous oil companies to ensure they stay on course to end routine gas flaring by 2030 at the latest.

"Furthermore, Nigeria is poised to embark on methane reduction projects that will enable Nigeria to commit to methane reduction and meet net zero emissions by 2060. It is reassuring to see initiatives such as the project methane mitigation and reduction in Nigeria's oil and gas sector initiated with today's event.

"This national stakeholders engagement event is expected to serve as a platform to discuss the complexities of methane mitigation and reduction within Nigeria's oil and gas industry. Presentations today will provide insights and an overview of existing policies and implementation strategies, including key stakeholders involved in these efforts. We can identify gaps, challenges, and opportunities for effective national actions through rigorous research and collaborative efforts."

According to the minister, President Bola Tinubu is dedicated to addressing climate change and environmental sustainability by the multilateral environmental agreements to which Nigeria is a party.

Mahmud Kambari, the ministry's permanent secretary, stated that because significant opportunities and stakes are involved, methane emissions in the oil and gas sector must be addressed. 

Kambari said, "Let's harness our collective expertise, innovation, and resources to drive sustainable development, foster economic growth, and enhance energy security in Nigeria and beyond.

"As we engage in today's discussions, let us be guided by openness and inclusivity. Challenge assumptions and explore creative solutions that align with equity, justice, and environmental integrity principles."

Dr. Olumide Abimbola, the Executive Director of the Africa Policy Research Institute, stated in his remarks that the urgent effects of methane emissions on the climate and environment must be addressed.

According to Abimbola, whom Mr. Chibuikem Agbaegbu represented, methane is a powerful greenhouse gas that can seriously harm the environment and the health of present and future generations.

"Recognizing this urgent need, APRI, in close collaboration with the Department of Climate Change, Federal Ministry of Environment, has embarked on a crucial project focused on methane mitigation and reduction within Nigeria's oil and gas sector.

"This project, funded by the Government of Canada through Environment and Climate Change Canada, underscores the strategic importance of taking proactive steps to reduce methane emissions. It aligns with Nigeria's climate action commitments. It offers opportunities to unlock co-benefits for public health, food security, and economic development, which align with Nigeria's national and sustainable development goals.

"Today's event marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts. It provides a platform for stakeholders from diverse sectors to unite, share insights, and chart a unified course towards sustainable methane mitigation and reduction in Nigeria. Through constructive dialogue and collaboration, we aim to identify challenges, explore opportunities, and pave the way for effective and sustained action," he said.