The Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Iziaq Salako, has stated that the ministry, in partnership with the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency, will initiate regular reviews of the plans of international and indigenous oil companies.
This measure is aimed at ensuring their adherence to the goal of ending routine gas flaring by 2030.
Salako said this in Abuja on Tuesday at the national stakeholders engagement meeting on methane mitigation and reduction in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
Methane, a potent greenhouse gas with significant warning potential compared to carbon dioxide, poses a major threat to the health and well-being of current and future generations and climate protection goals.
Reducing methane emissions, especially in the oil and gas sector will strengthen climate action and unlock benefits for public health, food security, and economic development.
Salako said practical steps are being taken to address methane emissions in the country.
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.”
