Ekperikpe Ekpo Reels Out People-Centred Gas Sector Achievements
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, PhD, has highlighted key people-oriented achievements recorded in Nigeria’s gas sector in 2025, saying the reforms are already delivering jobs, improved power supply, cleaner cooking, and economic opportunities for Nigerians.
Ekpo spoke over the week while addressing media professionals at his hometown in Ika Local Government Area, where he outlined progress made under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
According to the minister, domestic gas supply exceeded two billion cubic feet per day for the first time in Nigeria’s history, a development that has helped stabilise electricity generation and improved energy access for households and industries. He noted that the Federal Government’s approval of ₦185 billion to clear legacy gas debts restored confidence among gas suppliers and boosted supply to power plants nationwide.
On job creation and industrial growth, Ekpo said over 50 gas utilisation projects have been unlocked across the country, with projections of up to four million direct and indirect jobs by 2030. He added that strategic projects such as the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline and the Brass Fertilizer Plant would further stimulate manufacturing, agriculture, and regional development.
The minister also highlighted major gains in clean cooking, explaining that expanded LPG penetration programmes across the six geopolitical zones have increased household access to cooking gas, reduced reliance on firewood, and improved public health outcomes. He disclosed that groundwork has been completed for the One Million Homes per Year Clean Cooking Programme, scheduled to commence in 2026.
Speaking on benefits to Akwa Ibom State and the South-South region, Ekpo cited the groundbreaking of a 10 MMSCF/D Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Mother Station in Esit Eket Local Government Area and the signing of a $3.5 billion gas infrastructure and industrialisation MoU in Uyo as major milestones expected to attract investment and create jobs.
He further noted that Nigeria’s leadership role in the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) has strengthened the country’s global standing, boosted investor confidence, and positioned Nigeria as a credible destination for gas investment.
Ekpo assured that the Federal Government remains committed to consolidating the gains recorded in 2025, stressing that natural gas will continue to serve as a catalyst for inclusive economic growth, energy security, and national development.
The media engagement, he said, was part of efforts to keep the public informed and ensure transparency in the implementation of policies affecting the energy sector.
