The Minister of State for Environment, Dr Iziaq Salako, has announced that the ministry, in collaboration with the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency, will start conducting regular assessments of the strategies of international and local oil firms to guarantee they are progressing towards the goal of ending routine gas flaring by 2030.
Salako made this statement in Abuja on Tuesday during the national stakeholders engagement meeting on methane mitigation and reduction in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
A major threat to the health and well-being of current and future generations and climate protection goals is posed by methane, a potent greenhouse gas with significant warning potential compared to carbon dioxide.
To strengthen climate action and unlock benefits for public health, food security, and economic development, reducing methane emissions, especially in the oil and gas sector, is crucial.
Salako said practical steps are being taken to address methane emissions in the country. He observed that the development of methane guidelines was a result of collaborative efforts by government institutions.
The minister's statement highlighted President Bola Tinubu's commitment to environmental sustainability and climate action, in line with the multilateral environmental agreements that Nigeria is committed to.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mahmud Kambari, stressed the need to address methane emissions in the oil and gas industry, citing the high stakes and opportunities.
Kambari emphasized on harnessing collective expertise, innovation, and resources to drive sustainable development, foster economic growth, and enhance energy security in Nigeria and beyond.
The Executive Director of the Africa Policy Research Institute, Dr Olumide Abimbola, pointed out the importance of addressing the critical impacts of methane emissions on climate and environment in his remarks.
Mr Chibuikem Agbaegbu, representing Abimbola, highlighted that methane, a potent greenhouse gas, poses a significant threat to both the health of our planet and the well-being of current and future generations.
