During the International Conference on Hydrocarbon Science and Technology organized by the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), emphasized Nigeria’s steady progress toward the Federal Government’s goal of complete flare-out by 2030 through the commission’s flare gas commercialisation initiatives.

Represented by the Executive Commissioner for Corporate Services & Administration, Dr. Kelechi Onyekachi Ofoegbu, Komolafe stressed that Nigeria’s hydrocarbon future should go beyond merely increasing oil production or monetizing gas.

He noted, “The focus should be on governing our resources to build trust, attract sustainable investments, uplift our people, protect the environment, and secure Nigeria’s rightful role in the global transition to sustainable energy.”

Komolafe highlighted that gas once wasted through flaring is now being harnessed across flare sites nationwide to power homes, support small industries, and provide clean cooking energy for millions.

He also pointed out that although Africa holds over 125 billion barrels of proven oil reserves and more than 620 trillion cubic feet of gas with Nigeria endowed with 37.28 billion barrels of oil and 210.54 trillion cubic feet of gas more than 600 million people across the continent still lack access to electricity.