The Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mr. Mele Kyari, has reiterated the crucial role of natural gas in fueling economic growth and industrial development.
Kyari made these remarks at the public presentation of a book entitled ‘The Rise of Gas: From Gaslink to the Decade of Gas,’ written by Charles Osezua.
During his speech, Kyari highlighted the global acceptance of gas as a significant energy source that sustains economic growth and drives industrial activities. He stressed the importance of documenting Nigeria’s gas sector and the need to prioritise natural gas production and supply in the context of geopolitical dynamics and energy security.
“With Nigeria boasting substantial gas reserves exceeding 200 trillion cubic feet and a potential to reach 600 tcf, it is pertinent Nigeria leverages the gas resource for sustainable development, energy security, and job creation,” stated the NNPCL spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye.
Kyari emphasised the alignment of the book with the Federal Government’s ‘Decade of Gas’ initiative. He expressed the aim of optimising Nigeria’s abundant gas reserves for both domestic consumption and international export. The NNPCL has played a leading role in advancing this agenda through strategic investments in critical gas infrastructure, such as pipelines and processing facilities.
The author of the book, Charles Osezua, described its unveiling as his significant contribution to Nigeria’s energy literature. He expressed gratitude to the NNPCL for its support towards the book launch. Osezua further highlighted the company’s commitment to fostering knowledge sharing and innovation within the gas industry.
Afolabi Oladele, Chairman of the Impact Investors Foundation and former Group Executive Director of NNPCL, praised the book for its comprehensive insights into the gas value chain. He stated that it would be relevant to policymakers amid the global energy transition.
It is worth noting that Nigeria has adopted gas as its transition fuel, with President Bola Tinubu striving to make compressed natural gas available to all Nigerians in place of petrol.
