In a significant environmental achievement, the joint venture between the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and First Exploration & Petroleum Development Company Limited (First E&P) has reached a remarkable 96% reduction in the routine flaring of associated gas (AG) at the Anyala (OML 83) and Madu (OML 85) fields. This milestone, announced in a press statement on Thursday by NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, marks a major step in Nigeria’s efforts to mitigate environmental impacts associated with the oil and gas industry.
Environmental Impact and Commitment to Sustainability:
This accomplishment aligns with Nigeria’s commitment under the Paris Agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Specifically, the country has pledged to reduce emissions by 20% unconditionally and by 47% conditionally through its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). The success of the joint venture is a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to global environmental goals and advancing sustainability within its energy sector.
The reduction in gas flaring was achieved through the implementation of a gas reinjection strategy at the Madu field in OML 85, located offshore in Bayelsa State. Rather than flare the associated gas, it is now stored in an underground reservoir, effectively eliminating harmful emissions and ensuring better environmental stewardship.
Regulatory Compliance and Industry Leadership:
This achievement also reflects adherence to the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) guidelines, which have been increasingly focused on enforcing stricter gas flaring reduction policies. NUPRC’s regulatory framework aims to drive down flaring across the country, and this joint venture’s success contributes significantly to that national effort.
Mele Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC, commented on the development, stating: “This achievement underscores our commitment to leveraging resources responsibly and optimising production to meet energy needs and sustainability goals. It reflects our commitment to aligning our operations with global standards and environmental best practices.”
Commitment to Cleaner Energy:
Ademola Adeyemi-Bero, Managing Director/CEO of First E&P, also expressed his company’s dedication to sustainability, saying: “This milestone reflects our unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible energy production. By substantially reducing our carbon footprint, we are contributing to a sustainable energy future that benefits both the environment and the communities we serve.”
Future Focus on Gas Commercialisation:
Looking ahead, the joint venture is now shifting focus towards commercialising the stored gas and tapping into other stranded gas resources in the Niger Delta region. This marks another important step in optimising the use of natural gas and driving a more sustainable and economically beneficial energy future for Nigeria.