NNPC to Work with Partners to Reduce Methane Emissions in Nigeria

In the effort to lower methane emissions in Nigeria from oil and gas activities, NNPC Ltd. has reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with international partners. The Oil and Gas Decarbonization Charter was unveiled on the fringes of the contemporary United Nations Climate Change Conference, or COP28, which is being held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The oil and gas industry is obligated by the Charter to reach net-zero emissions for its own activities by 2050. By 2030, it also aims to attain almost zero methane emissions and eliminate routine flaring.

Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, Executive Vice President, Upstream, NNPC Ltd., discussed the development during a panel session titled “Accelerating the Elimination of Methane Emissions & the Decarbonization of Oil & Gas.” Eyesan stated that the Charter presented a significant opportunity for both the African sub-region and NNPC Ltd.

“Even if Africa only makes up 3% of global emissions, the effects of those emissions still affect us. For a significant African National Oil Company (NOC) like ours, I believe the decarbonization initiative and the charter are not only morally just but also strategically necessary. This charter is significant, in our opinion. To deliver on that, we are dedicated to collaborating with all relevant parties,” Eyesan said.

According to her, Nigeria has proclaimed this decade as the Decade of Gas in order to accomplish its nearly zero methane emissions. This initiative aims to produce gas not only for sale but also for the local economy and the economy of the entire African sub-region.

“I can promise you that we are willing to collaborate with our partners to reduce methane emissions and achieve zero flare by 2030. This is exactly what we had in mind, and we think it’s doable,” Eyesan said.

She identified cash and technology as the two main obstacles to implementing the charter’s requirements, and she noted that in order to overcome these obstacles, African nations must collaborate with partners who possess both of these resources.

She stated that NNPC Ltd. is still dedicated to growing its portfolio of alternative energy sources by making investments in wind, solar, and other renewable energy sources.