Nigeria is advancing its energy ambitions with a new regulatory roadmap from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), designed to unlock more than 55 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of untapped gas reserves. The initiative aims to attract multi-billion-dollar investments and strengthen Nigeria’s position as a leading gas producer.
Expanding Reserves and Investment
Since the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) in 2021, NUPRC has approved 25 Non-Associated Gas (NAG) developments, resulting in 9,790 billion standard cubic feet (BSCF) of additional reserves and $4.9 billion in capital inflows. This milestone reinforces Nigeria’s long-term gas development strategy and signals investor confidence.
Nigeria’s Growing Gas Strength
Current data shows that Nigeria’s gas reserves increased to 210.54 TCF in 2025, up from 208.83 TCF in 2023. With a Reserves Life Index of nearly 93 years and daily production averaging 7.61 BSCF, the nation’s gas sector demonstrates both capacity and sustainability for future growth.
Strengthening the Regulatory Landscape
At the Lagos Gas Investment Forum, NUPRC Chief Executive Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, represented by Engr. Enorense Amadasu, outlined key frameworks including the 2018 Flare Gas Regulations and the 2024 Tax Incentives Order. These policies form part of the government’s broader plan to make Nigeria a competitive hub for gas investment and industrial utilization.
Boosting Domestic and Export Markets
According to NUPRC data, 28% of Nigeria’s gas output serves local industries, while 35% is exported through LNG and pipeline systems. Another 29% goes into field operations. The new roadmap seeks to balance domestic supply and export demand, ensuring energy access and foreign exchange earnings.
Driving Key Infrastructure Projects
Major projects such as NLNG Train 7 and the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano Pipeline remain central to this vision. Out of 19 active gas projects, 88% are currently in the engineering phase, representing a potential capacity of 3.55 BSCF per day. These developments are expected to advance Nigeria’s gas infrastructure and economic diversification.
Aligning with Energy Transition Goals
The roadmap aligns with Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan, promoting decarbonization and cleaner energy solutions. Through initiatives like the Decade of Gas and improved fiscal policies, NUPRC aims to eliminate investment hurdles and attract new entrants to the gas value chain.
Looking Ahead
A Gas Production Ramp-up Workshop planned for late 2025 will explore ways to accelerate output, strengthen gas clusters, and enhance the implementation of the PIA’s “drill-or-drop” policy.
With 26% of proven reserves still uncommitted, Komolafe emphasized that Nigeria’s gas sector holds vast untapped potential. The roadmap, he noted, positions Nigeria not just as a regional energy leader but as a future driver of sustainable economic growth across Africa.
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