By Solomon OKPO
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, has described gas-to-methanol ventures as Nigeria’s new frontier for economic transformation, stressing their capacity to accelerate industrial growth, job creation, and sustainable development.
Speaking at the Niger Delta Oil and Gas Investment and Security Summit in Calabar, Cross River State, themed “The Decade of Gas and Investment Opportunities in the Gas Sector,” Ekpo emphasized that Nigeria’s vast natural gas reserves — over 210 trillion cubic feet proven and 600 trillion cubic feet potential — place the nation in a unique position to lead globally in gas-based industrialization.
“One of the most exciting opportunities for Nigeria lies in gas-to-methanol projects. Methanol, a versatile industrial chemical, is used across plastics, paints, pharmaceuticals, adhesives, and as a clean emerging fuel,” he stated.
Represented by his Senior Technical Adviser, Engr. Abel Nsa, the minister revealed that Nigeria is already attracting global investment, citing the $3.6 billion Brass Methanol Plant in Bayelsa State, which is progressing towards Final Investment Decision (FID).
He noted that the Federal Government’s Decade of Gas agenda (2021–2030) is steadily advancing, with initiatives like the Gas Flare Commercialization Programme, which has successfully converted 48 flare sites into viable projects for LPG, power, and petrochemicals.
Ekpo further observed that Cross River State, given its strategic location and growing industrial base, is well-positioned to host methanol plants that could stimulate technology transfer, job creation, and regional exports.
“The Federal Government will continue to support projects that make Calabar and Cross River a true hub for gas industrialisation, methanol production, and regional exports,” he assured.
However, the minister warned that oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and sabotage remain major threats to investment and revenue. He urged oil companies and government agencies to deepen constructive engagement with host communities.
“When communities see real benefits — jobs, schools, clinics, infrastructure, and dividends from Host Community Development Trusts — they will become protectors, not saboteurs, of oil and gas assets,” Ekpo said.
