Innovation crucial for expanding domestic gas utilization, infrastructure —says Minister

By Abubakar Yunusa

Honorable Minister of State, Petroleum Resources (Gas), Hon. Ekperipe Ekpo, emphasizes the importance of creating an environment that attracts investment and fosters innovation to expand domestic gas utilization and infrastructure.
The Minister made this statement during the opening ceremony of the 2nd edition of the Domestic Gas Summit (DGGIS), organized by the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) in Abuja yesterday.
He noted that strategic intervention frameworks, such as the Midstream and Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund, are already bridging the infrastructure gap, creating an environment conducive to future investments.
These advancements are not merely in anticipation of domestic growth but are aimed at positioning Nigeria as a key player in the African and global gas markets.
“Our strategies and initiatives focus on increasing domestic gas consumption and decisively reducing gas flaring.
“This commitment is evident in the commendable Nigerian Flue Gas Commercialization Program, as well as in policies that promote gas-to-power initiatives, gas-based industrialization, and the conversion of associated gas into more economically valuable resources, thereby transforming environmental challenges into economic opportunities.
“Our roadmap is not limited to pipelines and power; it encompasses our commitment to creating gender-equitable solutions in any transition. We are dedicated to building a resilient and sustainable energy industry that includes and benefits every citizen, recognizing the role of women in the energy sector, ensuring inclusivity, and leveraging diversity as a strength,” he said.
In his welcome remarks, the President of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Dr. Al-Mujtaba Abubakar, highlighted the rising global demand for cleaner energy sources as an opportunity for Nigeria to harness its gas resources for the nation’s benefit.
“This is an opportunity for the development of our dear nation, and at the Chamber of Commerce, we are committed to leveraging anything that can benefit the business community, improve economic growth, drive investments, and provide much-needed jobs for Nigerians.”
Dr. Victoria Akai, the Director General of ACCI, called on industry players to utilize the outcomes of this summit to foster a more dynamic domestic gas industry in Nigeria.