Address Overlapping Laws in Gas Sector, NGA Tells Govt

The Nigerian Gas Association (NGA) has urged the federal government to streamline regulatory frameworks in the gas sector, warning that overlapping laws and conflicting policies are hampering industry growth and investor confidence. The association emphasized that a clear and cohesive legal structure is necessary to unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s vast gas reserves.

According to NGA, multiple agencies currently oversee different aspects of gas production, processing, and distribution, often leading to bureaucratic bottlenecks and regulatory inconsistencies. Industry players have expressed concerns that this fragmentation discourages investment, delays project approvals, and increases operational costs. The association has called for a harmonized approach that ensures efficient governance and fosters a conducive business environment.

Stakeholders argue that Nigeria’s ambition to transition to a gas-driven economy under its Decade of Gas initiative can only be realized if legal and regulatory barriers are addressed. They stress that a simplified and transparent regulatory framework will attract local and foreign investments, accelerate infrastructure development, and enhance gas utilization for power generation, manufacturing, and domestic consumption.

In response, government officials have acknowledged the concerns raised by the NGA and have pledged to review existing laws to eliminate redundancies. Policymakers also reaffirmed their commitment to creating an investor-friendly environment that will position Nigeria as a global hub for natural gas production and export.

As discussions continue, industry experts are hopeful that regulatory reforms will lead to increased gas exploration, improved supply chains, and a more competitive energy sector capable of driving sustainable economic growth.