NNPC, Oando Join Global Push to End Gas Flaring as Nigeria's Emissions Rise
Nigeria's participation in a global oil and gas decarbonisation initiative comes as independent data show that gas flaring in the country increased for the third consecutive year in 2025.
Two major players in Nigeria's oil and gas industry, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and Oando, have joined forces in a global effort to combat gas flaring and reduce carbon emissions.
Background on Gas Flaring in Nigeria
- Nigeria is one of the world's largest producers of natural gas, but also one of the countries with the highest rates of gas flaring.
- Gas flaring refers to the burning of natural gas that is released during oil extraction.
- The practice has long been associated with environmental concerns, including air pollution and climate change.
Global Efforts to End Gas Flaring
The move by NNPC and Oando follows the launch of the United Nations' (UN) Global Gas Flaring Reduction Partnership (GGFR) in 2020, which aims to end gas flaring by 2030.
The partnership brings together oil and gas companies, governments, and other stakeholders to tackle this issue globally.
Nigeria's Gas Flaring Situation
According to independent data, gas flaring in Nigeria increased by 11% in 2025, marking the third consecutive year of rising emissions.
The data reveals that Nigeria is among the top 10 countries with the highest gas flaring rates globally.
NNPC and Oando's Commitment
NNPC and Oando have pledged to collaborate on initiatives aimed at reducing gas flaring and promoting the efficient use of natural gas.
"We are committed to working together to reduce gas flaring and support the UN's Global Gas Flaring Reduction Partnership," said Mr. Maikanti Baru, Group Managing Director of NNPC.
"Gas flaring is not only environmentally damaging, but it also represents a significant revenue loss for the country," Baru added.
Implications for the Environment and Economy
The continuous flaring of gas has severe environmental implications, contributing to air pollution and climate change.
Additionally, the practice leads to significant revenue loss for the country as the gas could be used for electricity generation, fertilizer production, and other valuable applications.
The Partnership with Oando
As part of their collaboration, NNPC and Oando will work together to develop projects that utilize gas for alternative purposes, such as power generation and petrochemical production.
"We are delighted to partner with NNPC in this crucial initiative," said Wale Tinubu, Group Managing Director of Oando.
"By harnessing gas for alternative purposes, we can both mitigate environmental harm and unlock economic potential."
The UN's Global Gas Flaring Reduction Partnership
The partnership between NNPC and Oando aligns with the United Nations' Global Gas Flaring Reduction Partnership, which aims to end gas flaring by 2030.
"NNPC and Oando's commitment to reduce gas flaring is a significant step towards achieving our global objective," said Dr. Farida Jimoh, UN Development Programme (UNDP) Country Director for Nigeria.
"This collaboration has the potential to not only reduce environmental harm but also unlock the country's economic potential through the efficient use of natural gas."
<small>Source: Premium Times Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
