Methanol from Gas Could Power Nigeria’s Next Economic Leap, Says Minister
Calabar, Nigeria — Nigeria’s vast natural gas reserves could transform the nation into a methanol powerhouse, spurring industrialisation and job creation, according to the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo.
Speaking at the Niger Delta Oil and Gas Investment and Security Summit in Calabar, Ekpo—represented by his Senior Technical Adviser, Abel Nsa—highlighted the potential of gas-to-methanol projects as part of the Federal Government’s push to diversify the economy.
“One of the most exciting opportunities for Nigeria lies in gas-to-methanol projects. Methanol is a versatile chemical with applications in plastics, pharmaceuticals, adhesives, paints, and even as a clean fuel. Tapping into this will create jobs, attract investment, and stimulate industrialisation,” Ekpo said.
Nigeria holds proven gas reserves of 210 trillion cubic feet, with an additional 600 trillion cubic feet in potential resources. Ekpo noted that international interest is already strong, citing progress on the $3.6 billion Brass Methanol Plant in Bayelsa State, which is edging toward a Final Investment Decision (FID).
The methanol drive forms part of Nigeria’s Decade of Gas initiative (2021–2030), designed to shift the nation from crude oil dependency toward a gas-led economy. Ekpo also pointed to the Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme, which has converted 48 flare sites into viable projects for LPG, power generation, and petrochemicals.
He emphasised the strategic role of Cross River State as a gateway for methanol-driven industrialisation, citing its location, infrastructure potential, and skilled workforce.
“Cross River is well-positioned to host methanol-based industries that can spur technology transfer, drive downstream investments, and deliver widespread employment,” he said.
Industry analysts note that if fully harnessed, methanol could become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s industrial revival, linking its abundant natural gas resources with global demand for cleaner energy and advanced materials.
