Gas stakeholders push for stronger laws to unlock investment

Goli Innocent 

Lagos — Stakeholders in Nigeria’s gas sector have renewed calls for a tougher and clearer legal framework, arguing that stronger regulations are critical to attracting investment and unlocking the country’s vast gas reserves.

The call followed discussions at the inaugural Legal Forum organised by the Nigerian Gas Association, where industry players, regulators, policymakers and legal experts examined how policy certainty can drive growth across the value chain.

In his opening remarks, NGA President Aka Nwokedi said Nigeria’s gas potential remains significant but warned that investors will only commit capital where the rules are clear and predictable.

“Nigeria’s gas resources present a defining opportunity for economic transformation, but realising this potential will depend on building a legal framework that is transparent, predictable, and globally competitive,” he said.

Participants at the forum acknowledged that while the Petroleum Industry Act has set the groundwork for reform, its real impact now depends on disciplined implementation and stronger institutional coordination. They stressed that vague regulations and weak enforcement continue to slow investment decisions.

The discussions also positioned natural gas as central to Nigeria’s economic strategy, particularly in balancing industrial growth, energy security and emissions reduction. However, stakeholders noted that attracting long-term capital now requires enforceable standards around carbon management and environmental, social and governance obligations.

Beyond policy clarity, industry players pointed to structural gaps in commercial arrangements. They argued that clearer contracts, faster dispute resolution systems and stable fiscal terms are essential to reduce risk and accelerate project execution.

Stakeholders also referenced ongoing government efforts to expand gas infrastructure and boost domestic utilisation, noting that consistency in policy direction will send the strongest signal to both local and foreign investors.

The forum concluded that bridging the gap between legal frameworks and industry realities is now urgent, as Nigeria pushes to position gas as a cornerstone of its economic growth strategy.