A bill aimed at ending gas flaring in Nigeria and criminalizing the practice has passed its second reading in the House of Representatives. Sponsored by Babajimi Benson, the lawmaker representing Ikorodu federal constituency in Lagos State. The bill seeks to prohibit gas flaring except in specific, regulated circumstances. It also aims to encourage the utilization of natural gas for economic growth, energy production, and job creation while enforcing strict penalties for violators.
During the debate, Benson emphasized the severe environmental, health, and economic consequences of gas flaring in Nigeria. He noted that gas flaring, which has persisted for decades, leads to environmental degradation, health problems, and economic losses. Pollutants from flaring contribute to respiratory diseases and cardiovascular issues in nearby communities, while the wasted gas could be used for energy generation or exported for revenue, aligning with global climate goals like the Paris Agreement.
The bill proposes a comprehensive prohibition of gas flaring, allowing exceptions only during emergencies or with explicit authorization from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC). It requires operators to develop and implement Gas Utilization Plans to capture, process, or commercialize the gas that would otherwise be flared. Violators would face heavy fines and suspension of operations for repeat offenses.
The bill also includes provisions for compensating communities affected by gas flaring and addressing environmental restoration.
Benson also highlighted the transparency measures embedded in the bill, which will require operators to submit regular reports on gas flaring incidents. These reports will be publicly available and subject to audits by the NUPRC to ensure accountability.
