Kenyon Energy CEO Calls for End to Gas Flaring

The Chief Executive Officer of Kenyon Energy, Dr. Michael Adebanjo, has called for an accelerated end to gas flaring in Nigeria, emphasizing its detrimental impact on the environment, public health, and the economy. Speaking at an energy sustainability conference in Lagos, Adebanjo stressed the urgent need for policy enforcement and innovative solutions to tackle the decades-long issue.

Environmental and Health Impacts

Gas flaring, the burning of natural gas during oil extraction, has been a persistent problem in Nigeria, particularly in oil-rich regions. Adebanjo highlighted the following consequences:

• Environmental Degradation: The release of greenhouse gases contributes to global warming and climate change.
• Public Health Risks: Communities near flaring sites experience respiratory illnesses and other health issues due to toxic emissions.
• Loss of Biodiversity: Ecosystems are disrupted, affecting agriculture and local livelihoods.

Economic Losses

Adebanjo lamented the economic toll of gas flaring, noting that it wastes valuable resources that could be harnessed for power generation and industrial use. “Every cubic meter of gas flared represents a missed opportunity for energy security and economic growth,” he stated.

Advocacy for Solutions

The Kenyon boss proposed several strategies to eliminate gas flaring:

1. Strengthening Policy Enforcement: Ensuring strict compliance with existing anti-flaring regulations.
2. Investing in Infrastructure: Developing facilities for gas capture, storage, and utilization to convert flared gas into liquefied natural gas (LNG) or other marketable products.
3. Incentivizing Innovations: Encouraging oil companies to adopt technologies that reduce or eliminate flaring.
4. Expanding Partnerships: Collaborating with international organizations and local communities to accelerate progress.

Aligning with Global Goals

Ending gas flaring aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on climate action and affordable clean energy. Adebanjo emphasized that addressing gas flaring is essential to fulfilling these objectives.

Industry Collaboration

Kenyon Energy has pledged to lead by example, implementing zero-flaring policies across its operations. The company also plans to collaborate with other industry players to share best practices and promote sustainable energy solutions.

Conclusion

Dr. Adebanjo’s call to action reinforces the importance of eradicating gas flaring as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s energy transition. With a combination of robust policies, innovative technologies, and industry-wide commitment, the nation can transform its natural gas resources into a driver of sustainable development.