Jarigbe Pledges Senate Support to Optimize Gas Sector Growth

By Judex Okoro

The Senator representing Cross River North, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has assured that the Senate is ready to provide the legislative backing and oversight needed to unlock Nigeria’s gas potential.

He gave the assurance at the two-day National LPG Conference and Exhibition held at the Balmoral Convention Center, Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, with the theme “Navigating the Future of LPG: Challenges, Opportunities and Collaboration.”

The conference focused on addressing challenges and exploring solutions to issues affecting the LPG industry, including energy transition and infrastructure development.

As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Gas, Senator Jarigbe commended NALPGAM for championing the LPG sector and organizing the event at a time Nigeria is pushing for a cleaner energy transition. He observed that despite the country’s 209 TCF of proven natural gas reserves, LPG penetration remains among the lowest in sub-Saharan Africa.

He stressed that LPG offers a clean, efficient energy alternative that can boost public health, reduce deforestation, and cut economic costs. He also pointed to key challenges such as infrastructure gaps, regulatory inefficiencies, safety concerns, and cylinder management.

According to him, strategic opportunities lie in legislative support, private sector investment, increased domestic utilization, inclusive access, and human capital development.

Senator Jarigbe urged lawmakers, regulators, industry players, and development partners to work together to drive a gas-powered economy, adding that collaboration is vital for achieving Nigeria’s clean energy goals.

He further reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to implementing the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), particularly its provisions on gas commercialization and infrastructure development.