Federal Government Moves to Position South-South as Regional Hub for Commercial Gas Utilization
Written by Blessing Ajibuwa on July 15, 2025
The Federal Government has expressed commitment to making the South-South region a hub for commercial gas utilization due to its huge reserves, infrastructure potential, peaceful investment climate, and readiness of governments and people to partner for development. Ekperikpe Ekpo, Minister of Petroleum Resources (Gas), made this known in an address at the South-South Gas Utilization Forum 2025 held in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.
*Key Highlights:*
– *Gas Utilization*: The South-South region is poised to become a hub for commercial gas utilization, leveraging its vast gas reserves and infrastructure potential.
– *Investment Opportunities*: The region’s peaceful investment climate and readiness of governments and people to partner for development make it an attractive location for investment.
– *Economic Growth*: The development of the gas industry in the South-South region is expected to drive economic growth and create job opportunities.
Benefits of Gas Utilization in South-South Region
The development of the gas industry in the South-South region will have numerous benefits, including:
– *Increased Revenue*: The gas industry will generate significant revenue for the government and create new economic opportunities.
– *Job Creation*: The industry will create new job opportunities in the region, both directly and indirectly.
– *Infrastructure Development*: The development of the gas industry will also lead to infrastructure development, including roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure.
Challenges and Opportunities
While there are opportunities for growth and development in the gas industry, there are also challenges that need to be addressed. These include:
– *Infrastructure Gaps*: The region needs to address infrastructure gaps, including roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure.
– *Security Concerns*: The region also needs to address security concerns, including pipeline vandalism and theft.
– *Environmental Impact*: The development of the gas industry needs to be done in an environmentally sustainable manner, with minimal impact on the environment.
