Regulator urges World Bank support as country shifts focus from planning to execution in ‘Decade of Gas’ agenda…..
Nigeria is intensifying efforts to unlock its vast gas potential, with the country now seeking about $22 billion to address critical infrastructure gaps across the sector.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Saidu Mohammed, made the call while speaking at the ‘Decade of Gas Ministerial Roundtable on Regional Gas Development’, held in collaboration with the World Bank.
Mohammed explained that the first phase of Nigeria’s “Decade of Gas” initiative focused largely on laying the groundwork for growth, identifying the key building blocks needed to fully harness the country’s gas resources.
These include improving supply, stimulating demand, expanding infrastructure, and establishing pricing systems capable of supporting long-term investment.
With much of that framework now in place, attention is shifting to implementation.
According to him, the next phase will be judged by tangible outcomes such as increased gas production, stronger investor participation, expanded pipeline networks, and the development of new processing facilities.
Eyes on Regional Expansion
Beyond domestic priorities, Nigeria is also positioning itself as a major gas supplier across Africa and beyond.
Mohammed outlined three major corridors that could drive regional and international gas exports:
- The Africa Atlantic Gas Pipeline, designed to run along the northern Atlantic coast with potential links to Europe
- The Trans-Sahara Gas Pipeline, extending the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano network across multiple African regions
- Coastal liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure along the Gulf of Guinea and other key coastal markets
He noted that these projects could significantly strengthen energy integration across the continent while opening new revenue streams for Nigeria.
Collaboration Key to Success
However, he stressed that delivering on these ambitions will require strong coordination across countries and institutions.
Key priorities include:
- Harmonised regulatory frameworks across borders
- Clear structures for cross-border gas trade
- Reliable data on regional energy demand
- Sustained funding for large-scale infrastructure
He also underscored the importance of firm supply agreements and expanded gas-to-power projects to ensure stable demand.
Regulatory Support and Investment Drive
Mohammed reaffirmed the commitment of the NMDPRA to creating an enabling environment for investors through clear pricing policies, tariffs, and regulatory certainty.
He added that partnerships particularly with institutions like the World Bank will play a crucial role in mobilising the scale of financing required.
As Nigeria pushes forward with its gas agenda, the challenge will be turning ambition into execution.
Closing the $22bn infrastructure gap could not only transform the domestic energy landscape but also position the country as a central player in Africa’s evolving gas market.
For policymakers, the message is clear: the groundwork has been laid, now the focus must shift to delivery, investment, and regional impact.
