The House of Representatives on Thursday passed to its second reading, a bill aimed at prohibiting gas flaring, promoting gas utilisation, and enforcing penalties and remedies for violations.
The bill, which was sponsored by Hon. Babajimi Benson (APC, Lagos), seeks to curb the flaring and venting of natural gas, except in strictly regulated circumstances.
It also aims to harness gas resources to spur economic growth, generate energy, and align Nigeria’s oil and gas industry with international climate change commitments.
Prohibition of gas flaring except during emergencies or with explicit authorisation by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).
Mandatory submission and implementation of Gas Utilisation Plans by operators, outlining strategies for capturing, processing, or commercialising gas that would otherwise be flared.
Penalties for violators, including fines of $5 per 1,000 standard cubic feet of gas flared and potential suspension of operations for repeat offenders.
Compensation and environmental restoration for communities affected by gas flaring.
Mandatory reporting of gas flaring incidents, with data audited and published by the NUPRC to ensure transparency and public oversight.
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Leading the debate, Hon. Benson highlighted the severe environmental, health, and economic impacts of gas flaring, which has plagued Nigeria for decades.
Benson explained: “Gas flaring contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, global warming, and acid rain, exacerbating climate challenges.
“Pollutants from gas flaring cause respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, particularly among residents near flaring sites.
“Economically, flaring wastes a valuable resource that could be harnessed for energy or revenue generation.”
The bill also aims to bring Nigeria in line with global standards, such as the Paris Agreement on climate change, ensuring sustainable practices in oil and gas operations.
The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission will oversee the implementation of the proposed law, conducting audits, enforcing penalties, and facilitating gas utilisation projects in collaboration with operators and development partners.
Benson added, “This Bill ensures a balance between environmental stewardship and economic development.
“It is a practical and forward-looking response to one of Nigeria’s most pressing environmental challenges, laying the groundwork for a sustainable future.”
The bill’s provisions were described as critical for public health, environmental protection, and economic advancement.
Benson called on lawmakers to support the legislation as a testament to their collective commitment to these goals.
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