Economy

NNPC plans to reduce methane emissions by 60%

NNPC plans to reduce methane emissions by 60%

T The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to cutting methane emissions in the oil and gas sector by 60% by 2031, aiming to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060.

Speaking on Thursday, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Mele Kyari, underscored the importance of reducing methane emissions during a meeting with U.S. State Department’s Global Methane Program Manager, Robert Leahman, and a Deloitte team at the NNPC Towers in Abuja.

“Reducing methane emissions is not just an environmental necessity but also a strategic imperative for Nigeria’s energy transition. We are leveraging partnerships to adopt global best practices and innovative solutions,” Kyari said.

The meeting highlighted collaborative methane abatement initiatives, including a pilot project in the Niger Delta, aimed at establishing emissions baselines, mitigating methane leaks, and promoting sustainable energy practices.

Leahman commended Nigeria’s proactive measures, stating, “Nigeria’s leadership under the Global Methane Pledge sets a standard for the continent. These initiatives will not only help reduce emissions but also drive sustainable development in the energy sector.”

The pilot project, jointly implemented by NNPC, Deloitte, and the U.S. Bureau of Energy Resources, will use data-driven methodologies to identify and address methane hotspots, aligning with Nigeria’s environmental objectives.

Kyari emphasized that tackling methane emissions would save costs, reduce waste, and protect the environment. “This collaboration is a game-changer. It’s a win-win for our economy and the planet,” he added.