The House of Representatives has progressed a bill to its second reading, aimed at addressing the environmental and economic challenges posed by gas flaring in Nigeria. Sponsored by Hon. Babajimi Benson (APC, Lagos), the bill seeks to prohibit the flaring and venting of natural gas except in regulated emergencies or with explicit authorization from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC). It also emphasizes promoting gas utilization, enforcing penalties for violations, and ensuring remedies for affected communities.
Key provisions of the bill include the mandatory submission of Gas Utilisation Plans by operators, outlining strategies for capturing, processing, or commercially utilizing gas that would otherwise be wasted. Violators of the proposed regulations would face penalties such as fines of $5 per 1,000 standard cubic feet of gas flared, and repeat offenders risk suspension of operations. Additionally, operators would be required to report flaring incidents, with the NUPRC auditing and publishing this data to ensure transparency and accountability.
The legislation also emphasizes the need for compensation and environmental restoration for communities impacted by gas flaring. Hon. Benson highlighted the detrimental effects of gas flaring, noting that it significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, climate change, and acid rain. The pollutants released exacerbate respiratory and cardiovascular health issues, particularly in communities near flaring sites. Economically, flaring wastes a resource that could be leveraged for energy production or revenue generation.
The bill aligns with global climate change commitments, such as the Paris Agreement, advocating for sustainable practices within Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. The NUPRC would oversee its implementation, enforcing penalties, conducting audits, and facilitating gas utilization projects in collaboration with operators and development partners.
Benson described the bill as a vital step toward balancing environmental protection and economic development, addressing one of Nigeria’s most pressing environmental concerns. He urged lawmakers to support the legislation, emphasizing its importance for public health, environmental sustainability, and economic progress. This bill, he stated, lays the foundation for a future where Nigeria’s natural resources are managed responsibly and efficiently.