Nigeria expands gas production amid US‑Israel conflict with Iran

Ekperikpe Ekpo, a senior official in Nigeria’s Ministry of Petroleum Resources, said that the escalating conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran has prompted the Nigerian government to accelerate its gas production programme. The tension, which has disrupted global oil supplies and heightened energy security concerns, is driving Lagos to position its natural‑gas sector as a more reliable export commodity.

In response, Nigeria plans to increase gas output by 30 percent over the next two years, targeting an additional 1.5 billion cubic metres annually. The strategy includes fast‑tracking approvals for new offshore fields, expanding liquefied natural gas (LNG) export capacity at the Bonny and Gbaran terminals, and attracting foreign investment through tax incentives. Officials anticipate that the boost will help offset potential revenue losses from reduced oil exports and meet rising demand from European and Asian markets seeking alternatives to Russian gas.

Ekpo concluded that the shift underscores Nigeria’s intent to diversify its energy portfolio and strengthen its role in the global gas market amid geopolitical instability, positioning the country to benefit from heightened demand for non‑oil hydrocarbons.