Dr. Iziaq Salako, the Minister of State for the Environment, announced that the ministry will begin a periodic review of the plans of foreign and domestic oil companies through the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency to make sure they stay on track to end routine gas flaring by 2030.
At the national stakeholders engagement meeting on methane mitigation and reduction in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector on Tuesday in Abuja, Salako made this statement.
The health and well-being of present and future generations, as well as the objectives of climate protection, are seriously threatened by methane, a powerful greenhouse gas that has a much higher warning potential than carbon dioxide.
Methane emissions reductions will bolster climate action and yield advantages for public health, food security, and economic growth, particularly in the oil and gas industry.
According to Salako, the nation is taking proactive measures to reduce methane emissions.
He noted that “Collaborative efforts of government institutions have led to the development of methane guidelines. In addition, the Federal Ministry of Environment through the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency will be commencing the periodic review of the plans of international and indigenous oil companies to ensure they stay on course to end routine gas flaring by latest 2030.
“Furthermore, Nigeria is poised to embark on methane reduction projects that will enable Nigeria’s commitment to methane reduction and meeting net zero emissions by 2060. It is therefore reassuring to see initiatives such as the project methane mitigation and reduction in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, which is being initiated with today’s event.
“This national stakeholders engagement event is expected to serve as a platform to discuss the complexities of methane mitigation and reduction within Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. Presentations here today, will provide insights and overview on existing policies, implementation strategies, including key stakeholders involved in these efforts. Through rigorous research and collaborative efforts, we can identify gaps, challenges, and opportunities for effective national actions.”
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According to the minister, President Bola Tinubu is dedicated to climate action and environmental sustainability in accordance with the multilateral environmental agreements to which Nigeria is a party.
Because there are significant risks and opportunities associated with methane emissions in the oil and gas sector, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mahmud Kambari, stated that action must be taken.
“Let’s leverage our combined knowledge, creativity, and assets to promote sustainable development, encourage economic expansion, and improve energy security in Nigeria and abroad,” Kambari stated.
“As we engage in today’s discussions, let us be guided with openness, and inclusivity. challenge assumptions, and explore creative solutions that align with the principles of equity, justice, and environmental integrity.”
Dr. Olumide Abimbola, the Executive Director of the Africa Policy Research Institute, stated in his remarks that the urgent effects of methane emissions on the climate and environment must be addressed.
Speaking through Mr. Chibuikem Agbaegbu, Abimbola said that methane, a powerful greenhouse gas, is a serious threat to the health of our planet and the welfare of present and future generations.
“Recognizing this urgent need, APRI, in close collaboration with the Department of Climate Change, Federal Ministry of Environment, has embarked on a crucial project focused on methane mitigation and reduction within Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
“This project, funded by the Government of Canada through Environment and Climate Change Canada, underscores the strategic importance of taking proactive steps to reduce methane emissions. Not only does it align with Nigeria’s climate action commitments, but it also offers opportunities to unlock co-benefits for public health, food security, and economic development, in line with Nigeria’s national and sustainable development goals.
“Today’s event marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts. It provides a platform for stakeholders from diverse sectors to come together, share insights, and chart a unified course towards sustainable methane mitigation and reduction in Nigeria. Through constructive dialogue and collaboration, we aim to identify challenges, explore opportunities, and pave the way for effective and sustained action,” he said.
