The Federal Government, yesterday, called for regional collaboration to strengthen its energy security by reducing dependence on importation. Minister of State, Petroleum Resources (Ga

s), Ekperikpe Ekpo, made the call in Lagos at the 6th West Africa LPG Expo 2025, with the theme: “LPG as clean fuel for energy transition in West Africa.”

He noted that energy transition is not a journey that any country can undertake alone, as it requires regional collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and strategic partnerships.

According to him, it is imperative to recognise the global push toward clean energy and the crucial role that LPG plays in this transition. He said West African nations must align their policies to create a harmonised LPG market that ensures affordability and accessibility across borders.

The minister stressed that Nigeria stands ready to work with regional partners, development agencies, and private sectors.He said: “Across West Africa, millions of households and businesses rely on biomass and traditional fuels, which not only degrade our environment but also pose severe health risks. LPG, with its lower carbon footprint, presents a viable and scalable alternative.”

He urged all stakeholders to explore innovative solutions, forge new partnerships, and commit to policies that will accelerate LPG penetration in the region, stressing that the Federal Government remains committed to leading this charge to ensure a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous future for West Africa.

The minister further stressed that the Nigerian government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, remains resolute in advancing LPG as a key component of the national energy mix.

Ekpo added: “Our decade of gas initiative is driving increased adoption of gas for domestic, commercial, and industrial use, ensuring that energy remains accessible, affordable, and sustainable. Through strategic policies and partnerships, we are committed to making LPG the fuel of choice for cooking, transportation, and power generation.”

The minister, who was represented by the Technical Adviser on Downstream to the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Abel Igheghe, said that the adoption of LPG, as a clean energy source, must be complemented by robust infrastructure.

He noted that while Nigeria has made significant strides in expanding LPG storage and distribution networks, key initiatives such as the LPG Penetration Programme and private-sector investments have contributed to increased local production, reducing reliance on imports and ensuring price stability.

The minister said: “We recognise the need for continued investment in LPG infrastructure across West Africa.

“Governments and private entities must work collaboratively to establish efficient supply chains, improve safety standards, and create an enabling environment that attracts investment in the LPG sector.

“To accelerate LPG adoption, we are implementing targeted policy interventions, including removing bottlenecks that hinder investment in the sector.”