Nigeria to Power Africa’s Growth Through Gas: NNPC Unveils $60bn Investment Plan

Nigeria is positioning itself as a key driver of Africa’s economic and industrial future by leveraging its abundant gas resources. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, Group CEO of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, revealed this ambition during the opening of the Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES) 2026 in Abuja. He emphasized that Nigeria’s natural gas reserves could play a central role in lifting millions of Africans out of energy poverty while contributing to global energy stability.

Ojulari highlighted that Nigeria holds over 209 trillion cubic feet of gas and 37 billion barrels of crude oil, making it well-equipped to lead the continent’s energy transformation. “Nigeria’s pathway to a prosperous future lies in our ability to leverage our resource abundance, especially as gas sits at the heart of our strategy,” he said. He described gas as a “bridge to a cleaner future, an engine for industrialization, and a foundation for export-led growth.”

The NNPC CEO stressed the importance of a people-centered approach to Africa’s energy challenges. With more than 600 million Africans still without electricity, Ojulari called for equitable energy solutions that prioritize accessibility, affordability, and sustainability. He said energy expansion should not just replicate global models but be tailored to empower communities, support agriculture, modernize transportation, and unlock the potential of Africa’s youth.

NNPC’s roadmap includes a $60 billion investment program targeting major gas infrastructure projects. These include the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben (OB3) pipeline, the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) gas pipeline, and the Escravos-Lagos Pipeline System (ELPS) expansion. These initiatives are designed to make gas the primary driver of Nigeria’s industrial growth while enhancing access to reliable energy across the country.

Supporting this push, private sector players are aligning with NNPC’s vision. The Dangote Group recently strengthened gas supply contracts with NNPC subsidiaries to fuel its refinery, fertilizer, and cement operations. Such collaborations demonstrate how Nigeria’s gas sector is emerging as a cornerstone for industrialization, cleaner energy adoption, and economic expansion across the continent.

source: nairametrics