Ekpo Seeks Investments to Unlock Nigeria’s Vast Gas Resources for Industrialisation, Economic Growth 

Alike Ejiofor

Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), called on investors to tap Nigeria’s extensive natural gas reserves to spur industrialisation, economic growth, job creation, and higher living standards for all Nigerians.

He made the appeal during his keynote address at the Association of Local Distributors of Gas (ALDG) Business Forum 2026 in Abuja, where the theme was “From Gas Abundance to Gas Access: Reassessing Nigeria’s Gas Distribution Imperatives.”

Represented by Mrs. Ikenma Irene, Director of Midstream and Downstream, the minister explained that Nigeria holds more than 209 trillion cubic feet of proven natural gas reserves, placing it among the world’s most gas‑endowed countries. However, the real challenge lies in ensuring widespread access and utilisation of this strategic resource.

“Nigeria’s development will not be measured by the volume of gas beneath our soil, but by the extent to which that gas powers industries, supports households, creates jobs, and fuels sustainable economic growth,” the minister said.

He praised ALDG for providing a strategic platform for collaboration and dialogue among key stakeholders, noting that the Forum’s timing is critical in Nigeria’s energy transition.

The minister highlighted the federal government’s continued commitment under President Bola Tinubu to deepen domestic gas utilisation through the Decade of Gas initiative and other transformative reforms aimed at positioning Nigeria as a gas‑powered economy.

He also noted that the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 has strengthened the legal and regulatory framework needed to attract investment, encourage private sector participation, expand infrastructure, and promote market efficiency across the gas sector.

According to the minister, industrialised nations advanced economically not merely because of resource endowment but because they built systems that ensured reliable energy access, industrial utilisation, and efficient markets.

“Nigeria must now move decisively from gas abundance to gas accessibility,” he said. “The success of this vision requires policy consistency, strong institutions, strategic investments, infrastructure expansion, security collaboration, and sustainable stakeholder partnerships.”

He urged Forum participants to focus on developing practical, investment‑driven solutions that expand gas access and deliver measurable benefits to Nigerians.

“As we deliberate today, let us remain focused on building a gas sector that delivers real value to Nigerians—one that powers industries, supports households, creates jobs, enhances energy security, and drives inclusive national development,” the minister stated.

“Let us move from gas abundance to gas access. Let us move from policy to implementation. Let us build a gas economy that works for all Nigerians,” he added.