Nigeria is making significant strides toward eliminating gas flaring by 2030, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has announced. Speaking at the International Conference on Hydrocarbon Science and Technology organized by the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), NUPRC’s Chief Executive, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, highlighted the commission’s flare gas commercialisation initiatives as a key driver of progress toward the federal government’s ambitious flare-out target.
Represented at the event by Dr. Kelechi Onyekachi Ofoegbu, NUPRC’s Executive Commissioner for Corporate Services & Administration, Komolafe emphasized that Nigeria’s hydrocarbon strategy should go beyond production volumes. “Our focus is not just on how many barrels of oil we produce or how much gas we can monetise, but on managing resources to build trust, attract sustainable investment, uplift communities, protect the environment, and secure Nigeria’s role in the global energy transition,” he said.
The NUPRC chief noted that gas flaring, which once wasted valuable energy and harmed the environment, is increasingly being repurposed. Across flare sites in Nigeria, gas is now being harnessed to power homes, support small industries, and provide clean cooking energy for millions, demonstrating a shift toward sustainable utilisation of the nation’s natural resources.
Despite Africa’s vast energy reserves—including over 125 billion barrels of proven oil and more than 620 trillion cubic feet of gas—more than 600 million people across the continent lack access to electricity. Nigeria alone has 37.28 billion barrels of oil and 210.54 trillion cubic feet of gas, highlighting both the challenge and potential of bridging the energy access gap through efficient resource management.
The NUPRC’s ongoing reforms and strategic investments in flare gas utilisation signal a commitment to environmental stewardship, economic growth, and sustainable energy development. With continued focus and collaboration, Nigeria is on track to achieve its 2030 gas flare-out target, positioning the country as a leader in Africa’s energy transition.
source: The nation