FG Reaffirms Commitment to Gas-Powered Economy at South-South Forum

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, has restated the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to transforming Nigeria into a gas-driven economy, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He noted that this commitment is anchored on the declared “Decade of Gas” initiative, aimed at leveraging the country’s vast gas resources for national growth and development.

Speaking on Monday in Uyo at the South-South Gas Utilisation Forum 2025—hosted by the Gas Aggregator Company Nigeria with the theme “Utilising Gas as a Catalyst for Sustainable Growth”—Ekpo emphasized the importance of translating conversations into actionable outcomes. He urged participants to see the event as a pivotal moment to implement innovative ideas, forge meaningful partnerships, and advance gas utilisation across the region and the country at large.

“The Federal Government is fully committed to turning Nigeria’s gas potential into prosperity,” Ekpo declared. “It’s time we convert gas wealth into industrial growth, innovation hubs, and tangible benefits for our communities, especially the host areas, in line with the Petroleum Industry Act (2021).”

Acknowledging the South-South region as the backbone of Nigeria’s natural gas production, Ekpo noted the irony that the region, despite its resource contributions, has yet to reap the full rewards. He stressed that the forum must serve as a catalyst for moving the region from mere resource extraction to inclusive development, innovation, and value addition.

Also speaking at the event, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno—represented by his deputy, Senator Akon Ayakenyi—applauded the forum for enhancing government insight into the vast potential of gas in the region. He affirmed the state’s commitment to policy alignment, resource management, and public-private collaboration to ensure the gas sector becomes a driver of industrialization and inclusive prosperity. Similarly, the CEO of Gas Aggregator Company Nigeria, Chijioke Uzoho, reiterated the company’s readiness to partner with all stakeholders in unlocking the full commercial potential of gas in the South-South, emphasizing the need for effective collaboration between government and private actors.