The Commission Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Gbenga Komolafe, has stated that Nigeria’s crude oil reserves of 37.5 billion barrels and 209.26 trillion cubic feet of natural gas are expected to meet the country’s energy demands for the next 70 and 90 years, respectively.
Speaking at the Decarbonization and Energy Sustainability Forum in Abuja, Komolafe emphasized the need for strategic collaboration in the oil and gas sector. Addressing stakeholders on the theme, “Navigating the Global Energy Transition: Leveraging Decarbonization in Nigeria’s Upstream Oil & Gas for Sustainable Value Creation,” he called for collective efforts to effectively manage the country’s energy transition.
He stressed the need to create a clear pathway toward a cleaner, more resilient, and prosperous future for Nigeria. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of balancing energy security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability as the country works toward decarbonisation and achieving net-zero emissions by 2060.
He noted that the post-Paris Agreement era has driven global efforts toward carbon neutrality, leading to reduced investments in oil and gas. However, he emphasized the need for a “just transition” that considers the economic realities of different regions.
The NUPRC Chief, Gbenga Komolafe, stated that Nigeria’s strategy of using natural gas as a transitional fuel aligns with the stance of global leaders. He emphasized that this approach allows Nigeria and Africa to chart their own energy transition pathway, balancing climate action with economic growth and energy security.
Beyond a just energy transition, Komolafe highlighted Nigeria’s focus on ensuring energy access that benefits its citizens. He reaffirmed the country’s commitment to decarbonization, citing key initiatives such as the National Gas Policy (2017), the National Gas Expansion Programme (2021), and the Decade of Gas Initiative (2030) as part of efforts to reshape Nigeria’s energy landscape.
According to Komolafe, “The enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act, the launch of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative, the landmark introduction of Presidential Executive Order 40 in 2024, and the strategic implementation of the Nigerian Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme signify a new dawn for the Nigerian gas development: one
that dismantles long standing barriers and unlocks unprecedented opportunities for growth.”
He stated that the NUPRC views decarbonization as a strategic opportunity to attract investment, stimulate growth, and establish Nigeria as a leader in sustainable energy use and efficiency. To achieve the decarbonization goal, the CCE stated that the NUPRC has created the Energy Sustainability and Carbon Management department, dedicated to advancing a comprehensive decarbonization and sustainability agenda.
Driven by seven strategic pillars including zero routine flaring, methane reduction, and technological innovation, the NUPRC aims to attract investment, strengthen energy security, and promote responsible energy consumption.
Komolafe emphasized that success in this transition will not be determined by intentions alone but by tangible progress in reducing emissions, transforming waste into economic value, improving operational efficiency, and leveraging carbon markets to their full potential.
