In his opening address, President of the NGA, Aka Nwokedi, underscored the urgency of aligning Nigeria’s legal architecture with its strategic gas ambitions, stressing that the next phase of sectoral growth would depend on the credibility of the regulatory environment.
“Nigeria’s gas resources present a defining opportunity for economic transformation, but realising this potential will depend on building a legal framework that is transparent, predictable, and globally competitive,” he stated. Discussions at the forum emphasised that while the Petroleum Industry Act had laid a foundation for reform, its impact would depend on effective implementation and institutional coordination.
Participants highlighted the need to eliminate ambiguity in regulations and strengthen enforcement to unlock sustained investment. Related News Nigeria attracts $425m investment in solar manufacturing FAAC shares N2.04tn March revenue amid stronger inflows NUPRC warns skills gap threatens oil sector growth The forum also reinforced natural gas as a strategic tool for balancing economic growth, energy security and emissions reduction.
In addition, participants stressed that investor confidence would depend on stronger commercial and contractual structures across the gas value chain. They identified contractual clarity, efficient dispute resolution mechanisms, and predictable fiscal policies as essential to de-risk investments and speed up project delivery.
The association also acknowledged the policy direction of the Bola Tinubu administration in advancing gas development through infrastructure expansion and increased domestic utilisation, noting that sustained policy stability would serve as a key signal to both local and foreign investors.
The NGA added that the inaugural Legal Forum marked a significant step towards bridging the gap between legal frameworks and industry realities, creating a structured platform for continuous engagement and forward-looking policy development aimed at driving Nigeria’s ambition of becoming a gas-powered economy.
In a statement on Wednesday, the association said the maiden forum, held on 17 April 2026, brought together legal practitioners, policymakers, regulators and industry executives to examine how clearer rules and predictable policies could accelerate growth in the sector.
Discussions at the forum emphasised that while the Petroleum Industry Act had laid a foundation for reform, its impact would depend on effective implementation and institutional coordination. Participants highlighted the need to eliminate ambiguity in regulations and strengthen enforcement to unlock sustained investment.
Related News Nigeria attracts $425m investment in solar manufacturing FAAC shares N2.04tn March revenue amid stronger inflows NUPRC warns skills gap threatens oil sector growth The forum also reinforced natural gas as a strategic tool for balancing economic growth, energy security and emissions reduction.
Dare Olawin is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over a decade of reporting experience. He began his career as a community reporter and now covers the energy sector, including oil, gas, electricity, and renewables. Dare’s work reflects hands-on newsroom experience, professional development through workshops and conferences, and a strong commitment to accurate and insightful journalism.