Nigeria Targets 10bn Gas Output by 2030

Nigeria Targets 10bn Gas Output by 2030

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja 

Nigeria has set its sights on producing 10 billion standard cubic feet (SCF) of gas per day by 2030, in what government officials describe as a game-changing push to unlock investments, power industries, and strengthen the nation’s economy.

The target was reaffirmed on Thursday when the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, held high-level talks with the management of Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) in Abuja to accelerate expansion and reforms in the gas sector.

Edun said the Tinubu administration was determined to transform Nigeria into a gas-driven economy, citing recent agreements, such as the Deepwater deal with TotalEnergies, as proof that global confidence in Nigeria’s energy sector was being restored.

“The President has stabilised the economy and created new opportunities for both manufacturing and energy. As we implement comprehensive tax reforms, your input will be vital in shaping a more attractive business landscape,” he told the NLNG delegation.

The Minister added that the rollout of digital trade systems would streamline oversight, block inefficiencies, and guarantee fairness.

“We want a transparent, technology-driven environment where investors can operate with confidence,” Edun stressed.

On the industry side, NLNG’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Philip Mshelbila, reported operational gains, including stronger gas supply, improved security on the Trans-Niger pipeline, and capacity utilisation rising above 70 percent.

He also highlighted progress on the Bodo-Bonny Road project while calling for the extension of the tax credit scheme to cover the East-West Highway, a strategic link for the gas corridor.

Energy analysts say the discussions represent a critical milestone in Nigeria’s quest to unlock its vast gas potential. With the 2030 target in sharp focus, the government is banking on gas not just as an export earner but also as the fuel to drive industries, create jobs, and anchor long-term economic growth under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.