Nigeria has unveiled a bold plan to stake a stronger claim in the global energy market, with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) announcing a $60 billion gas expansion initiative aimed at boosting exports and solidifying the country’s position as a major player in the international gas trade.
Speaking on the sidelines of a global energy summit, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPCL, Mr. Mele Kyari, disclosed that the multi-billion-dollar project is part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to harness its vast natural gas reserves, attract foreign investment, and transition towards cleaner energy sources in line with global demand trends. He described the plan as a game-changer, not just for Nigeria’s energy sector, but also for the economy at large.
According to Kyari, the project will see Nigeria expand its gas infrastructure, develop new processing plants, and build pipelines and export terminals to support liquefied natural gas (LNG) production and shipment. He noted that Nigeria, which holds one of the largest proven gas reserves in Africa, estimated at over 200 trillion cubic feet, is yet to fully tap into its export potential, even as international markets increasingly shift towards gas as a transitional fuel.
The initiative falls in line with the Federal Government’s “Decade of Gas” policy, which seeks to position gas as the cornerstone of Nigeria’s energy future. It also aligns with the country’s efforts to meet global energy demands, especially in Europe and Asia, where geopolitical tensions and climate policies have intensified the search for alternative gas suppliers.
Kyari further explained that the NNPCL is engaging international partners, financiers, and private sector players to secure funding and technical collaboration for the successful execution of the project. He stressed that the $60 billion will be deployed across multiple phases, with several strategic projects already underway, including the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline and the ongoing expansion of the NLNG Train 7 facility in Bonny Island, Rivers State.
The NNPCL boss assured stakeholders that the expansion drive will not only generate foreign exchange earnings for the country but also create thousands of jobs, stimulate local content development, and provide a more reliable energy base for domestic industries. He expressed confidence that with sustained political will and investor confidence, Nigeria can become a top-tier global supplier of natural gas in the coming decade.
Industry experts have welcomed the announcement, noting that Nigeria’s gas potential remains significantly underutilized. However, they cautioned that issues such as regulatory uncertainty, infrastructure bottlenecks, and security concerns in oil-producing regions must be addressed to realise the full benefits of the expansion plan.
As global economies continue to seek stable and sustainable energy sources, Nigeria’s latest move signals its readiness to not only meet local needs but also emerge as a critical supplier in the shifting global energy landscape.
