The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), on behalf of the Federal Government, has issued permits to access flare gas to 28 successful awardees.
Issued under the Nigerian Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme (NGFCP), the move marked a pivotal shift from environmental liability to economic opportunity in Nigeria’s upstream petroleum sector, according to a statement by the NUPRC.
Speaking on the development, the Commission Chief Executive, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe said the issuance of the Permit to Access Flare Gas (PAFG) under the 2022 NGFCP signifies the transition from legacy challenges to market-driven solutions.
According to him, the permit will unlock economic opportunities, strengthen energy security, reduce emissions, and improve operational efficiency across the industry.
On the benefits of the award, Engr. Komolafe said the programme is expected to reduce carbon dioxide by six million tonnes yearly, attract US$2 billion in investments, and create over 100,000 jobs.
The NUPRC boss stated: “A total of 49 flare sites have been auctioned. 42 bidders have been awarded the sites. Between 250 and 300 mmscfd of currently flared gas will be captured and commercialised, eliminating approximately 6 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually.”
