Ekpo Affirms FG’s Drive To Expand Gas Infrastructure, Power Neighbouring Economies

The minister of state for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo has reaffirmed the federal government’s unwavering commitment to expanding gas infrastructure, reducing gas flaring, and enhancing energy supply to power neighbouring West African economies.

Speaking during a key meeting with the outgoing and incoming managing directors of the West African Gas Pipeline Company (WAPCo) in Abuja on Tuesday, Ekpo emphasised the Tinubu administration’s strategic focus on leveraging Nigeria’s abundant gas resources to promote regional energy security and economic prosperity.

“As chairman of the Committee of Ministers of the West African Gas Pipeline, I can confidently say that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government is dedicated to extinguishing energy poverty not only in Nigeria but throughout the West African subregion,” Ekpo stated. “Our priority is to ensure a steady and reliable gas supply to countries including Benin Republic, Togo, and Ghana — nations that depend on Nigerian gas to power homes, industries, and businesses.”

Ekpo noted the federal government’s significant progress over the past two years in developing gas infrastructure. These initiatives have notably advanced gas pipeline capacity, minimised flaring, which contributes to environmental degradation, and increased gas availability for domestic consumption and export, the minister stated.

He commended Michelle Burkett, the outgoing managing director of WAPCo, recognising her visionary leadership and dedication in steering the company to remarkable milestones during her tenure.

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Ekpo also pledged full government support to the new managing director, Abiodun Bodunrin, expressing confidence that Bodunrin’s leadership will further strengthen the reliability and expansion of the regional gas supply chain.

In his remarks, Bodunrin sought the continued backing of the Minister and the Federal Government as he set forth his vision to enhance WAPCo’s operational performance and ensure uninterrupted delivery of gas from Nigeria to West African customers.

The federal government’s efforts underscore Nigeria’s critical role as the energy hub of West Africa and its commitment to delivering clean, sustainable energy solutions that propel regional economic growth while providing environmental benefits through reduced flaring.