Nigeria’s Midstream Sector Takes Centre Stage As Gas Exporting Countries Forum Kicks Off In Doha
Today, as the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) opened in Doha, Qatar, Nigeria has placed its midstream gas development agenda at the centre of discussions, reaffirming President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of transforming natural gas into the cornerstone of the nation’s industrial growth and energy diplomacy.
Leading the Federal Government delegation, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, said the administration’s focus on midstream gas infrastructure from processing plants to pipelines, storage, and conversion facilities, underscores President Tinubu’s determination to move Nigeria from a resource-dependent economy to a fully integrated gas-powered industrial nation. “President Tinubu has made it clear that gas is the pathway to a more prosperous, energy-secure, and industrialised Nigeria. Our engagements at the GECF are designed to attract partnerships and investments that will accelerate this transformation and strengthen Nigeria’s position as a dependable global energy partner,” Ekpo stated.
The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) led by its Authority Chief Executive, Engr. Farouk Ahmed, represented Nigeria in today’s extraordinary Governing Board sessions and side meetings, highlighting ongoing efforts to stabilise and expand the domestic gas value chain. He said Nigeria’s gas reforms and enhancements to the regulatory environment are unlocking opportunities for both domestic utilisation and international collaboration across the value chain.
According to Engr. Ahmed, “Under President Tinubu’s leadership, the Nigerian gas sector has moved from policy promises to measurable progress. Our regulatory clarity, infrastructure expansion, and focus on cleaner energy solutions have made the midstream segment the heartbeat of Nigeria’s energy reform,” Ahmed said.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, had earlier noted that Nigeria’s participation at the GECF is in line with President Tinubu’s foreign policy objectives, which place economic diplomacy and energy cooperation at the core of international engagement. “Energy diplomacy is one of the anchors of the Renewed Hope Agenda. Nigeria’s active role at the GECF reflects the President’s commitment to ensuring that Africa has a strong, responsible, and respected voice in shaping the global energy transition,” Tuggar said.
Nigeria’s delegation will continue high-level engagements throughout the week as discussions progress on global gas cooperation, energy transition strategies, and leadership of the Forum. The delegation is also expected to present Nigeria’s official candidate for the position of Secretary-General of the GECF later during the Ministerial Session on Thursday.
The Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF), headquartered in Doha, brings together leading gas-producing nations to foster cooperation, promote market stability, and support the efficient use of natural gas for global development. Nigeria, a founding member, continues to champion policies that strengthen Africa’s role in the global energy system.
