Reducing Gas Flaring: Our goal is to act, implement, and transform - Engr. Woke

The Director General and Chief Executive of the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), Engineer Chukwuemeka Woke, emphasized the urgent need to reduce gas flaring in Nigeria.

He noted that “The persistent practice of gas flaring has marred the breathtaking landscape of Nigeria’s abundant natural resources. It serves as a symbol of missed opportunities for harnessing energy, fostering economic growth, and preserving the environment.

"The well-documented environmental and health ramifications of gas flaring have far-reaching effects, deteriorating air quality, and public health while also aggravating the global climate crisis. Nevertheless, amidst this seemingly insurmountable challenge lies a remarkable opportunity for groundbreaking innovation, meaningful collaboration, and tangible progress.”

Engr. Woke made these remarks during his opening speech at the third National Extractive Dialogue 2024 (NED2024) held at Bon Hotel Elvis, Abuja, on July 24-25, 2024. The event, themed “Gas Flare Reduction: Catalyst for Accelerating Nigeria’s Path to Net-Zero Emissions and Sustainable Development,” highlighted the critical responsibility on their shoulders.

He stressed that, “at this critical juncture in history, our nation must take decisive action. The decisions we make and the actions we take in forums like this will unequivocally shape the future of our environment, our economy, and the health and well-being of our people and our communities. Today, we are not simply discussing an environmental issue; we are confronting a fundamental challenge that profoundly impacts our national development and our global commitments.”

In line with global climate change mitigation efforts and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to end gas flaring, reduce methane emissions, and enhance environmental sustainability, Engr. Woke highlighted the transformative potential of curbing gas flaring. He positioned gas flare reduction not just as an environmental necessity but as a catalyst for broader sustainable development and a key driver towards Nigeria's net-zero emissions goal. Addressing this issue could unlock new pathways for energy efficiency, economic diversification, and community resilience, thereby boosting economic growth and job creation in line with the President’s 8-point Agenda.

“As the Director General of the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency, I am acutely aware of the intricate link between environmental protection and sustainable development. Our agency is dedicated to ensuring that the exploitation of our natural resources does not come at the expense of our environment. The reduction of gas flaring is integral to this mission, aligning with our broader mandate to safeguard the environment from the adverse effects of oil and gas activities,” he said.

Engr. Woke acknowledged the diverse array of stakeholders present, including government officials, industry leaders, environmental advocates, and community representatives, each bringing valuable perspectives and expertise. He emphasized that collective efforts and shared commitment are essential to developing effective strategies and innovative solutions to significantly reduce gas flaring in Nigeria.

“I encourage us all to engage openly and constructively, to challenge assumptions, and to explore new ideas. Let us focus on actionable outcomes that can drive real change and progress. Our goal is not just to discuss but to act, to implement, and to transform.”

In closing, Engr. Woke expressed his gratitude to the co-organizer, the Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, the Ford Foundation through Space4Change, and all the speakers and participants for their dedication and commitment to this important cause. He concluded, “Together, we can work towards reducing gas flaring and creating a sustainable and prosperous future for Nigeria. Thank you and I wish us all a productive and inspiring dialogue.”