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VOL. 12, ISSUE 2 (2026)
Adverse impacts of natural gas exploitation and utilization in Nigeria: The Pia 2021 in perspective
Authors
Benedicta Ogbene Ohimor, Damfebo Kieriseiye Derri
Abstract
Nigeria is currently witnessing an
unprecedented rise in the utilization of gas especially with the passage of the
PIA 2021, and the launch of the ‘Decade of Gas 2030’ initiative. However, there
is minimal focus on the adverse effects of natural gas and its utilization
methods which include the use of a combination of technologies to collect,
recycle and use waste gas for purposes other than flaring. Some of these
problems include water contamination and leakage of methane which is worse than
gas flaring. This paper argued that while the utilization of gas has several
benefits, there is need to create a balance between enjoying the advantages of
natural gas and protecting the environment. The objectives of this paper, using
the doctrinal research methodology, are to examine the importance of natural
gas to Nigeria’s energy mix, incentives for gas utilization in Nigeria,
existing gas utilization projects both before and post ‘PIA and Decade of Gas’
era, the environmental and health challenges associated with the natural gas
resource and its utilization methods, and the inadequacy of the legal regime
for gas utilization in Nigeria on environmental protection. This paper finds
that the current legal regime for gas utilization in Nigeria is focused with
curbing gas flaring without taking into contemplation the environmental
infractions occasioned by natural gas and its utilization methods. It therefore
recommends further reforms of the primary legislation on gas utilization and
close monitoring of methane leaks and other environmental impacts associated
with natural gas utilization by relevant agencies.
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Pages:76-83
How to cite this article:
Benedicta Ogbene Ohimor, Damfebo Kieriseiye Derri "Adverse impacts of natural gas exploitation and utilization in Nigeria: The Pia 2021 in perspective". International Journal of Law, Vol 12, Issue 2, 2026, Pages 76-83
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