Operators push for aggressive gas development for domestic use

Indigenous gas operators have reiterated the need for an aggressive investment in gas resources because of the fear that domestic demand for gas may outstrip supply in the nearest future.

There are indications that there is a demand shortfall of about 4.7 billion cubic feet of gas per day (Bcf/d) in the domestic market.

This situation industry  analysts believe calls for an aggressive development of gas resources and infrastructure to deliver the commodity to end users.

Bolaji Ogundare, Chief executive Officer, Newcross Petroleum observes that for the economy  to achieve appreciable  growth, there must be steady supply of power  fuelled by gas, adding that there is the urgent need to address issues of gas availability through  further investments.

According to him, “The Nigerian economy can truly be an investor’s haven if the challenges around gas are holistically addressed”.

Ogundare said that the government should create an enabling  environment as  an incentive for indigenous companies willing to invest in gas for domestic use.

Experts disclosed that some of the areas where gas has the potential of earning revenue include: Wide spread adoption and utilisation of LPG as preferred fuel for domestic cooking; adoption and utilisation of CNG as fuel for vehicles and generating plants for industries etc.

They maintain that in recognition of the potentials of the Gas sub-sector, a number of initiatives have been adopted to stimulate development of the Gas sector.

According to the International Gas Union, vast opportunities await Nigeria in the Gas sector more so as she adjudged to a gas province.

The union has  therefore  called on the  country  to address the  issues   of  gas  infrastructure, funding and  pipeline vandalism  so as  to   encourage investment  in the sub sector.

KELECHI EWUZIE