Opinion
Reducing Gas Flaring: Our Goal is to act, to implement, and to transform – Engr. Woke
The Director General and Chief Executive of the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), Engr. Chukwuemeka Woke has underscored the importance of reducing gas flaring in Nigeria, as according to him, “The persistent practice of gas flaring has marred the breathtaking landscape of Nigeria’s abundant natural resources. It serves as a symbol of the missed prospects for harnessing energy, fostering economic growth, and preserving the environment. The well-documented environmental and health ramifications of gas flaring have far-reaching effects, deteriorating air quality, and public health while also aggravating the global climate crisis. Nevertheless, amidst this seemingly insurmountable challenge lies a remarkable opportunity for groundbreaking innovation, meaningful collaboration, and tangible progress.”
Engineer Woke stated this during his opening remarks at the third National Extractive Dialogue 2024 (Ned2024) held at Bon Hotel Elvis, 2 Monrovia St, Wuse 2, Wuse, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, on July 24-25, 2024, with the critical theme: “Gas Flare Reduction: Catalyst for Accelerating Nigeria’s path to Net-Zero Emissions and Sustainable development” adding, “I am reminded of the profound responsibility that rests on our shoulders.”
He stated that, “at this critical juncture in history, our nation must take decisive action. The decisions we make and the actions we take in forums like this will unequivocally shape the future of our environment, our economy, and the health and well-being of our people and our communities. Today, we are not simply discussing an environmental issue; we are confronting a fundamental challenge that profoundly impacts our national development and our global commitments.”
Excerpt of his remarks read: “In line with global climate change mitigation efforts and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR Administration’s commitment to end gas flaring, reduce methane emissions and enhance environmental sustainability in the country, the theme of our dialogue underscores the transformative potential of curbing gas flaring. It positions gas flare reduction not just as an environmental necessity but as a catalyst for broader sustainable development and a key driver towards our net-zero emissions goal. By tackling this issue head-on, we can unlock new pathways for energy efficiency, economic diversification, and community resilience which would in turn boost economic growth and job creation in line with Mr. President’s 8-point Agenda.
“As the Director General of the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency, I am acutely aware of the intricate link between environmental protection and sustainable development. Our agency is dedicated to ensuring that the exploitation of our natural resources does not come at the expense of our environment. The reduction of gas flaring is integral to this mission, aligning with our broader mandate to safeguard the environment from the adverse effects of oil and gas activities.
“Today’s dialogue brings together a diverse array of stakeholders-government officials, industry leaders, environmental advocates, and community representatives. Each of you brings valuable perspectives and expertise to this discussion. It is through our collective efforts and shared commitment that we can develop effective strategies and innovative solutions to significantly reduce gas flaring in Nigeria.
“I encourage us all to engage openly and constructively, to challenge assumptions, and to explore new ideas. Let us focus on actionable outcomes that can drive real change and progress. Our goal is not just to discuss but to act, to implement, and to transform.
“In closing, I want to express my gratitude to our co-organizer, the Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, and the funders of this event, the Ford Foundation through Space4Change, as well as the speakers and participants for your dedication and commitment to this important cause. Together, we can work towards reducing gas flaring and creating a sustainable and prosperous future for Nigeria.
“Thank you and I wish us all a productive and inspiring dialogue.”
By Nwaorgu Faustinus
By Rinret Jennifer Mwarap
The unrelenting massacre of citizens in Plateau State has reached an alarming level. While the government claims to be taking steps to restore order, the reality on the ground tells a different story one that feels like nothing meaningful is being done.
It is heartbreaking to see our loved ones butchered without cause. The questions torment us: What have we done wrong? Who have we offended? Where did we go astray? Must we continue to endure this suffering for no justifiable reason?
The killing of innocent people in Plateau must come to an end. The government and security forces cannot afford to look away. Their responsibility is clear they must act swiftly and decisively to bring the perpetrators to justice, for the sake of the innocent victims and the children left behind.
I call on the Governor of Plateau State to rise to this challenge. Take bold and immediate action against those who seek to destroy our land and shed innocent blood. Let them face the full weight of the law.
This feels like a nightmare—how did we get to the point where the same Plateau where I once slept peacefully with both eyes closed is now a place where even sleeping with one eye open feels unsafe?
Where is the peace in our “Home of Peace and Tourism”?
When will our tears dry? When will justice prevail?
If we truly seek peace, then justice must be non-negotiable.
Ken Nnamani, a former president of the senate, says he did not beg Elisha Abbo, a former senator representing Adamawa north, on behalf of any judge after the ex-lawmaker lost his election case in court.
In October 2023, the court of appeal sacked Abbo and declared Amos Yohanna, candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as the winner of the Adamawa north senatorial election.
Appearing on Channels Television on Wednesday, Abbo said he was a victim of “miscarriage of justice”.
The former senator said Nnamani pleaded with him on behalf of a judge after he lost his election case in 2023.
Reacting in a statement, the former senate president described Abbo’s claim as “blatant lies”.
“My greatest surprise was to hear him state that Senator Ken Nnamani visited him to plead with him on behalf of a judge for the miscarriage of justice. This statement is a blatant lie. I do not know how Senator Abbo can boldly fabricate an event that never happened to buttress his allegation of judicial miscarriage against him,” he said.
“For the avoidance of doubt, I have never visited Senator Elisha Abbo at his house or anywhere. Up to this moment, I do not know where he lives. I have never discussed with him about his case, or any case pending or decided by any court of law in Nigeria.
“The only time I met with him was when he visited me in my house. It was more of a social visit by him. At this meeting, we never discussed his case or any case. I recall that when the matter of his political career came up, I advised him to avoid controversies as a young politician.
“The statements Senator Abbo made regarding me and his case are all fabrications. I believe I have had a sterling and distinguished public service career. I am determined to maintain my integrity and commitment to excellence till the end of my life.”
Heineken Lokpobiri, minister of state for petroleum resources, says the federal government plans to commence implementing the drill-or-drop provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
Section 94 of the PIA gives operators a period of three years to begin oil production or relinquish the assets to the federal government.
Speaking during the Cross Industry Group (CIG) meeting held on Tuesday in Florence, Italy, Lokpobiri said it is in the best interest of the country that all inactive wells go to work.
He said the federal government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, has provided every necessary incentive to ensure international oil companies (IOCs) in Nigeria run smoothly and profitably.
“Now, it is imperative for these industry players to match the government’s efforts with increased investment by announcing final investment decisions (FIDs),” he said.
Furthermore, Lokpobiri discussed “the challenges, expectations, and measures to enhance the sector’s contributions towards domestic energy needs and regional expansion across Sub-Saharan Africa”.
He emphasised that while IOCs have highlighted engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractors as a challenge, “EPCs will not come unless they see strong commitments from industry players”.
“The government has done its part to provide the requisite and investment-friendly fiscals, the ball is now in the court of the IOCs and other operators to make strategic investment decisions that will drive increased production and sustainability in the sector,” he said.
“We must also recognise that domestic crude supply is essential to national energy security. The best solution to this challenge lies in increasing production, which will ensure a balance between domestic supply obligations and external commitments.”
The minister further urged industry players to explore collaborative measures, such as shared resources for contiguous assets and the release of underutilised assets to operators ready to invest in production.