In the heart of Africa’s energy sector, a persistent challenge continues to burn brightly—literally. Gas flaring, the process of burning off excess natural gas during oil production, has been a longstanding issue in Nigeria, and new research sheds light on the staggering environmental and economic impacts of this practice. Published in the journal *Discover Environment* (translated from the original title), a study led by Osise O. Okwilagwe from the Centre for Petroleum, Energy Economics and Law at the University of Ibadan, quantifies the true cost of Nigeria’s flaring habit, offering a stark reminder of the opportunities lost and the urgent need for change.
From 2002 to 2024, Nigeria has released a cumulative 714.62 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions from gas flaring, according to the study. To put that into perspective, that’s roughly equivalent to the annual emissions of 153 million cars. “The environmental toll is immense,” Okwilagwe notes, “but the economic losses are equally staggering.” The research estimates direct revenue losses of US$56.75 billion from underutilized natural gas resources. When considering the broader economic opportunity cost, including forgone liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, the figure rises to a staggering US$120.15 billion.
These findings place Nigeria far behind its peers in terms of flare reduction. Countries like Norway, the United States, and Angola have made significant strides in minimizing gas flaring, thanks to robust regulations, advanced infrastructure, and cohesive policy frameworks. Nigeria’s lag, the study suggests, stems from regulatory weaknesses, infrastructural deficits, and policy fragmentation. “We’re not just burning gas; we’re burning potential,” Okwilagwe emphasizes. “Every flame is a lost opportunity for economic growth and environmental stewardship.”
The study’s recommendations are clear: stricter regulations, increased investment in gas capture technologies, and independent monitoring of emissions. These measures, Okwilagwe argues, are not just environmental imperatives but economic necessities. “The technology exists, the expertise is available, and the economic case is compelling. What’s missing is the political will and coordinated action.”
The research also highlights the need for a comprehensive, multi-sectoral response that integrates legal, technological, and infrastructural reforms. This holistic approach, the study suggests, is crucial for Nigeria to achieve its zero-flaring targets and unlock the full potential of its natural gas resources.
As the energy sector grapples with the dual challenges of climate change and economic competitiveness, this research serves as a wake-up call. It underscores the urgent need for Nigeria—and indeed, the global energy community—to address gas flaring head-on. The study’s findings could shape future developments in the field, driving policy changes, technological innovations, and investment strategies aimed at minimizing flaring and maximizing the benefits of natural gas.
In the words of Okwilagwe, “The flame of opportunity is still burning, but it’s flickering. The time to act is now.” As Nigeria and other gas-flaring nations confront this challenge, the path forward is clear: turn off the flames, turn on the opportunities.