Nigeria Pushes Gas Expansion to End Electricity Outages

The Federal Government has intensified efforts to expand Nigeria’s gas infrastructure as part of a broader strategy to end chronic electricity outages and stabilise power supply across the country.

Officials say the renewed push is anchored on Nigeria’s vast natural gas reserves, which remain largely underutilised despite the country being one of the world’s top gas holders. The government believes gas-fired power plants offer the fastest and most reliable pathway to improving electricity generation.

Speaking at a recent energy stakeholders’ forum, senior government officials disclosed that several gas pipeline and processing projects are being fast-tracked to ensure steady supply to power generation companies. These include the expansion of existing pipelines and the development of new gas hubs in strategic locations.

READ ALSO: CBN, NCC to Enforce 30-Second Airtime Refunds

Power sector experts note that gas supply constraints have been a major reason many power plants operate far below capacity. Frequent disruptions, vandalism, and pricing disputes between gas suppliers and power producers have historically undermined generation targets.

Under the new framework, the government is working to improve commercial terms for gas producers, while also strengthening security around critical infrastructure. Incentives are being introduced to encourage private investment in gas processing and transportation.

Electricity distribution companies have welcomed the initiative, noting that improved generation is critical to addressing load shedding and frequent blackouts that have hampered economic growth. Manufacturers and small businesses continue to rely heavily on costly diesel generators, raising production costs.

The gas expansion drive also aligns with Nigeria’s energy transition goals, as gas is viewed as a cleaner alternative to diesel and other fossil fuels. Authorities maintain that gas will serve as a transition fuel while renewable energy capacity is scaled up.

Despite optimism, stakeholders warn that success will depend on consistent policy implementation, funding, and coordination across the energy value chain. Nigerians, long frustrated by unreliable power, will be watching closely to see if the renewed gas push delivers lasting improvement.