In a significant step towards reducing environmental impact and expanding gas supply, the NNPC/Heirs Energies OML 17 Joint Venture has signed commercialisation agreements with five companies to utilise flare gas previously wasted in operations.
Heirs Energies’ CEO, Mr Osa Igiehon, stated in Lagos that the agreements “advance Nigeria’s gas commercialisation and environmental stewardship agenda.” Concluded under both the Nigerian Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme (NGFCP) and approved non-NGFCP frameworks, the deals involve AUT Gas, Twems Energies, Gas and Power Infrastructure Development Ltd., PCCD, and Africa Gas and Transport Company Ltd.
Officials explained that the initiative is designed to end routine flaring and channel the gas into productive domestic uses, including power generation, industry, LPG, and CNG. Igiehon said the signing moves the joint venture “from regulatory approval to full commercial execution,” highlighting a gas-led strategy and long-term value creation for Nigeria.
“Gas is central to Nigeria’s development journey,” he remarked, noting that investments and credible partnerships are transforming previously wasted resources into economic value. The projects also build on improvements such as enhanced domestic gas deliveries, brownfield optimisation, and strengthened infrastructure.
Community engagement remains a priority, with initiatives covering health, education, and skills development. Mr Igiehon confirmed that the signing now allows offtakers to move into full project implementation.
NUIMS Chief Upstream Investment Officer, Mr Seyi Omotowa, said the milestone reflects Nigeria’s dedication to gas-led industrialisation, describing OML 17 as a model that has transitioned rapidly from regulatory approval to delivery.
Regulatory backing was reiterated by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, with Mr Ojo Olalekan representing CEO Mr Gbenga Komolafe. He emphasised that flare-gas commercialisation is pivotal to national decarbonisation under the Petroleum Industry Act.
Heirs Energies, as operator of OML 17, continues to prioritise responsible operations, domestic gas expansion, brownfield excellence, and sustainable energy delivery, with strong community partnerships at the core of its activities.
