Dr. Iziaq Salako, Minister of State for Environment, has announced that the ministry, through the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency, will begin a periodic evaluation of multinational and indigenous oil companies’ plans to guarantee they continue on track to eliminate routine gas flaring by 2030.
Salako stated this in Abuja on Tuesday during a national stakeholders engagement meeting on methane mitigation and reduction in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
Methane, a strong greenhouse gas with a much higher warning potential than carbon dioxide, endangers current and future generations’ health and well-being, as well as climate protection aims.
According to him, reducing methane emissions, particularly in the oil and gas sector, can strengthen climate action while also providing benefits for public health, food security, and economic development.
Salako stated that practical measures are being done to reduce methane emissions in the country.
“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,” he said.
cc: Punch Ng
