Nigeria urged to tackle energy crisis with gas reserves

Nigeria must develop lasting answers to its power shortage, energy industry leaders said after meeting in Abuja over the weekend. The Petroleum Training Institute hosted the gathering and released recommendations through its research director, Tina Isichie.

The nation holds 207 trillion cubic feet of natural gas alongside petroleum deposits that could fuel growth if properly managed. Population forecasts indicate that Nigeria will become the world’s third-largest country by 2050, underscoring the need for immediate action to meet future energy demands.

Officials called for faster investment in compressed natural gas and mandatory local processing plants for liquefied petroleum gas importers to lower costs. The conference identified problems that continue despite the 2021 petroleum law, such as underused refineries and workforce shortages.

Participants pushed for government petroleum agencies to work together on technology and production challenges. They want training centers established and closer ties between companies and universities to prepare workers for changing energy needs. Transparency will build confidence in the sector as local firms take larger roles, attendees said.