The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding natural gas usage across Nigeria, announcing plans to transition approximately five million households from firewood, kerosene, and other traditional cooking fuels to Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). This initiative is part of the broader Decade of Gas strategy aimed at reducing carbon emissions, improving public health, and maximizing the country's abundant natural gas resources.
Minister Outlines Gas as Transition Fuel
Speaking at the 2026 Nigeria Oil and Gas (NOG) Conference and Exhibition, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, emphasized that natural gas remains Nigeria's most practical pathway for economic growth while supporting global greenhouse gas reduction efforts. He stressed that although Nigeria supports the global energy transition, its approach must reflect its unique resource endowment. Nigeria possesses one of Africa's largest proven natural gas reserves, making gas the country's preferred transition fuel for powering industries, generating electricity, boosting transportation, and providing cleaner household energy.
Gas to Drive Cleaner Energy and Industrial Growth
Ekpo explained that the government's gas development agenda extends beyond domestic cooking, noting that natural gas has become a key pillar for industrialization, fertilizer production, power generation, and manufacturing. The creation of a dedicated Ministry of State for Gas demonstrates the government's resolve to accelerate investments and deepen gas utilization nationwide. He also pointed to incentives introduced under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which are designed to encourage greater investment in gas infrastructure and unlock the sector's economic potential.
The minister noted that gas, once regarded as a by-product of oil production, is now recognized globally as an important cleaner-burning fuel capable of supporting lower-carbon economic development. He stated: “Under the Decade of Gas Initiative, we have identified key projects that will bring gas closer to Nigerians. We are targeting about five million homes to switch from firewood, kerosene and biomass to LPG. This will improve household health while reducing carbon emissions. We are driving this because Nigeria has enormous gas reserves.” He added that the government is deliberately deploying technologies and policies to reduce emissions by increasing gas adoption.
Strategic Projects Under Decade of Gas
As part of the ongoing Decade of Gas Initiative, Ekpo said several strategic projects are being implemented to expand gas distribution across the country. The programme seeks to make LPG more accessible and affordable for millions of Nigerians while reducing dependence on firewood and other biomass fuels that contribute to deforestation and indoor air pollution.
