Kehinde Fajobi
The House of Representatives on Thursday moved a bill aimed at prohibiting gas flaring, advancing it to its second reading.
The legislation also seeks to promote gas utilisation and enforce penalties for violations.
Sponsored by Hon. Babajimi Benson (APC, Lagos), the bill proposes measures to end the flaring and venting of natural gas, except under strictly regulated circumstances.
It aims to harness gas resources to drive economic growth, generate energy, and align Nigeria’s oil and gas sector with global climate change commitments.
Key provisions of the bill include:
Prohibiting gas flaring except during emergencies or with explicit approval from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).
Requiring operators to submit and implement Gas Utilisation Plans detailing strategies for capturing and commercialising flared gas.
Imposing fines of $5 per 1,000 standard cubic feet of gas flared, with potential operational suspension for repeat violators.
Mandating compensation and environmental restoration for communities impacted by gas flaring.
Ensuring transparency through mandatory reporting and public disclosure of flaring data by the NUPRC.
During the debate, Hon. Benson underscored the devastating effects of gas flaring on health, the environment, and the economy.
“Gas flaring contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, global warming, and acid rain, exacerbating climate challenges,” Benson said.
“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.”
He added that the bill aligns Nigeria’s practices with international agreements like the Paris Agreement on climate change, ensuring sustainability in oil and gas operations.
The NUPRC will oversee the law’s implementation, conducting audits, enforcing penalties, and facilitating gas utilisation projects in collaboration with industry operators and development partners.
“This Bill ensures a balance between environmental stewardship and economic development,” Benson stated.
“It is a practical and forward-looking response to one of Nigeria’s most pressing environmental challenges, laying the groundwork for a sustainable future.”
Calling for support, Benson said the legislation reflects a commitment to public health, environmental protection, and economic progress.