Nigeria’s emergence in two major leadership positions in the global gas industry will boost investor confidence
It will attract new projects, and create jobs, according to the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo.
Speaking after briefing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja, Ekpo said the recent appointments Dr Philip Mshelbila as the next Secretary-General of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) and his own selection as President of the GECF Ministerial Council in 2026 represent “a big win” for Nigeria.
He noted that global visibility in the gas sector will draw investment and strengthen regulations.
Also, it support Nigeria’s ambition to fully harness its 210 trillion cubic feet of natural gas for economic growth.
“This will bring more projects, more jobs, and help us use our gas resources to drive the economy. It’s a big deal for our country,” Ekperikpe Ekpo said.
The Minister added that the development will accelerate exploration, expand gas-powered transport, and grow upstream activities.
Also, he credited President Tinubu’s focus on gas as a key national asset for the victory.
Dr Mshelbila currently heads Nigeria LNG (NLNG), said his role places Nigeria at the centre of a forum that controls 70% of global gas reserves and half of LNG exports.
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“Nigeria is gas-rich and now has a unique chance to unlock these opportunities like Qatar and the US,” he noted, pledging to support Nigeria’s Decade of Gas ambitions.
