British High Commission backs Nigeria’s energy transition strategy

The British High Commission has reaffirmed its support for Nigeria’s energy transition and gas flare reduction efforts through strategic collaboration with the NUPRC

British High Commission backs Nigeria’s energy transition efforts as the United Kingdom steps up its climate diplomacy and technical support for the country’s decarbonisation plans.

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The First Secretary for Climate Diplomacy, Ms Samantha Harrison, reaffirmed the UK’s commitment during a courtesy visit to the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) in Abuja.

Her engagement with NUPRC officials focused on collaborative efforts to reduce gas flaring, a key challenge within Nigeria’s upstream petroleum sector.

According to a statement released by the NUPRC on Tuesday, the meeting explored opportunities for strategic cooperation on energy and climate-related initiatives.

“The visit highlights the UK’s ongoing dedication to supporting Nigeria’s sustainable energy goals and fostering climate-resilient development as a pathway to long-term economic growth,” the statement read.

The Chief Executive of the NUPRC, Gbenga Komolafe, emphasised the commission’s leadership in driving Nigeria’s decarbonisation agenda.

He noted that a dual-pronged strategy is being implemented—decarbonising flare sites and converting flared gas into economic assets.

“This approach will not only mitigate environmental impact but also enhance national revenue generation,” Komolafe stated.

A major pillar of this strategy is the Nigerian Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme, which currently covers 49 identified flare sites.

The initiative aims to harness previously wasted gas and redirect it into productive use, contributing to both sustainability and economic development.

Komolafe also expressed appreciation for the ongoing support from multilateral institutions such as the World Bank and Net Zero World.

He said future collaboration with the British High Commission would be pivotal in achieving Nigeria’s net zero and energy transition targets.

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The meeting concluded with a technical session involving officials from both parties, focused on deepening bilateral cooperation and identifying actionable areas for joint implementation.