KEY POINTS
- NUPRC aims to unlock stranded gas fields and tap over 600 TCF of potential reserves to expand Nigeria’s gas capacity.
- Regional projects like the Nigeria-Morocco and Trans-Saharan Gas Pipelines are helping integrate African energy markets and attract private investment.
- Strengthened governance under the Petroleum Industry Act and transparent licensing rounds are designed to boost investor confidence and sustainable energy development.
The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, NUPRC, is intensifying efforts to unlock Nigeria’s numerous stranded gas fields, aiming to expand the country’s gas reserves and boost energy security.
The Commission Chief Executive, Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, made this announcement on Monday during the pre-conference session of the 2026 Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES) in Abuja. The summit’s theme this year is “Energy for Peace and Prosperity: Securing Our Shared Future.”
Despite Nigeria holding about 210 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of proven gas reserves, Eyesan emphasized that many gas fields remain underdeveloped, with an additional 600 TCF of potential reserves yet to be fully tapped.
Promoting Regional Integration and Market Efficiency
Eyesan, represented at the event by the Director of Economic Relations and Strategic Planning, Mr. Edu Iyang, highlighted the importance of a universal gas market posture and aligned fiscal policies to accelerate investment decisions and secure better pricing for Nigeria.
She noted that historically, gas resources, demand centers, and infrastructure were fragmented across countries, limiting efficient development.
Projects like the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline and the revamped Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline are now bridging these gaps, promoting cross-border energy trade and harmonized regulations.
Eyesan stressed that integrated markets and consistent policies could enable Africa to leverage regional financial institutions, attract private capital, and engage development partners more effectively, accelerating industrialization, electricity expansion, and job creation.
Regulatory Reforms and Investor Confidence
Nigeria has strengthened governance and transparency in the sector through the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), creating a business-friendly environment to encourage domestic and foreign investment.
According to Eyesan, ongoing transparent block licensing rounds provide investors with clear access to promising hydrocarbon basins, supporting long-term sustainable growth.
“Our mission is clear. To expand reserves, optimize production, and responsibly increase output, ensuring that Nigerian energy development drives economic prosperity, safeguards the environment, and sets the benchmark for the continent’s energy future,” she said.
