Seplat Energy Plc has reaffirmed that oil and gas will remain a key part of Nigeria’s energy mix, while calling on operators to conduct their activities responsibly, efficiently, and sustainably. The company made this position clear at a high-level climate roundtable held in Lagos, emphasising the importance of balancing energy production with environmental and social responsibilities.
The remarks were delivered by Mr. Okechukwu Mba, Director of Gas & New Energy at Seplat Energy Plc, who spoke on behalf of the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Roger Brown. The roundtable was organised by the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group) in partnership with Germany’s development finance institution DEG, and Africa Foresight Group (AFG). The event attracted industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders in the energy and finance sectors, highlighting the critical nexus between energy production, climate action, and sustainable investment.
Mr. Mba emphasised that the central question for Nigeria’s energy sector is not whether oil and gas should exist, but how operators manage their responsibilities to the environment, society, and economy. “Oil and gas will remain an important part of Nigeria’s energy mix for some time to come. The right conversation is not whether oil and gas should exist, but how operators conduct themselves responsibly,” he said.
He outlined that responsible operations must be backed by measurable actions, including increased efficiency, emission reductions, and credible carbon offset strategies. Highlighting Seplat Energy’s ongoing initiatives, Mr. Mba disclosed that the company has launched a comprehensive programme to end routine gas flaring across all onshore operations. He noted that all projects required to achieve this milestone had been completed and were at the commissioning stage, signalling the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
“Very soon, we will be able to clearly state that routine flaring has ended in our onshore operations. This is an important milestone that speaks to our stewardship of the environment, while remaining focused on delivering energy to the nation,” he said.
Mr. Mba also highlighted the use of technology to enhance operational efficiency. The company has implemented real-time monitoring of emissions across pipelines, valves, plants, and other critical infrastructure, supported by a robust asset integrity programme designed to detect and eliminate leaks. In addition, Seplat Energy is implementing nature-based solutions to offset emissions, including a large-scale afforestation programme in Edo State, where millions of trees will be planted over a five-year period. The first phase of this programme has already been completed.
Beyond operational and environmental measures, the company is investing in gas and LPG infrastructure to reduce emissions from households and small businesses. Mr. Mba explained that LPG previously earmarked for export following Seplat Energy’s offshore acquisition has now been redirected to domestic markets, increasing both availability and affordability. “Expanding access to LPG helps reduce reliance on firewood, charcoal, and other biomass fuels, particularly in communities outside major cities,” he said.
He also stressed the urgent need for financing to support Nigeria’s energy transition, particularly gas-to-power projects. While only about five gigawatts of electricity currently come from the national grid, much of Nigeria relies on diesel and petrol generators that produce higher emissions. “If we replace these inefficient power sources with gas-powered energy, we can achieve substantial decarbonisation. But without adequate financing, these projects cannot be implemented, and the benefits will not be realised,” Mr. Mba added.
The roundtable coincided with the launch of the NGX Net-Zero Programme (N-Zero), an initiative aimed at helping listed companies define net-zero pathways, improve climate-related disclosures, and attract climate-linked investment. The programme is expected to unlock between $2.5 billion and $3.1 billion in capital for Nigerian companies pursuing sustainability initiatives.
Dr. Umaru Kwairanga, Group Chairman of NGX Group, said Africa’s capital markets must lead the way in driving climate action and sustainable growth. Mr. Temi Popoola, Group Managing Director of NGX Group, highlighted how climate risk has become a critical factor in company valuation and capital allocation. Ms. Monika Beck, Management Board member of DEG, noted that the partnership would mobilise private capital to accelerate climate action while delivering measurable development impact.
Seplat Energy’s participation in the roundtable underscores the company’s commitment to balancing Nigeria’s energy needs with environmental sustainability, innovation, and community engagement. Through investments in technology, infrastructure, and nature-based solutions, the company is working to position oil and gas as part of a responsible, cleaner energy future for Nigeria.
