By Seun Ibiyemi
The NNPC/Heirs Energies OML 17 Joint Venture has taken a decisive step toward eliminating routine gas flaring and advancing Nigeria’s energy transition goals with the signing of Gas Flare Commercialisation Agreements under the Nigerian Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme (NGFCP) and approved Non-NGFCP frameworks.
The agreements were formalized at a ceremony in Lagos on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, marking a transition from regulatory approval to structured commercial execution.
The new partnership brings together Heirs Energies, the operator of the OML 17 Joint Venture, and a consortium of approved flare gas offtakers, including AUT Gas, Twems Energies, Gas & Power Infrastructure Development Limited (GPID), PCCD, and Africa Gas & Transport Company Limited (AGTC).
Under the terms of the deal, flare gas volumes across OML 17 will be captured and deployed for productive uses such as power generation, industrial applications, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).
Speaking at the event, the Chief Upstream Investment Officer of NUIMS, Engr. Seyi Omotowa, who represented NNPC Limited, described the initiative as a practical demonstration of Nigeria’s commitment to gas-based development.
He emphasized that for NNPC and NUIMS, flare gas commercialisation is not merely a compliance exercise but a strategic pathway to improving energy availability and deepening industrialisation.
He commended Heirs Energies for its disciplined execution, noting that OML 17 has become a model for moving from approval to delivery in the upstream sector.
The Chief Executive Officer of Heirs Energies, Osa Igiehon, stated that the agreements reflect the company’s brownfield excellence approach and its broader strategy to create long-term value for Nigeria.
He noted that by converting waste into value through disciplined investment and partnerships, the company is strengthening domestic energy supply and supporting responsible operations.
The regulatory stance was articulated by Mr. Ojo Olalekan Ezekiel, representing the Commission Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Engr. Gbenga Komolafe.
He reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to supporting bankable, environmentally responsible projects that align with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, adding that the ceremony underscores Heirs Energies’ dedication to national emission-reduction objectives.
Beyond the technical milestones, the Joint Venture highlighted its continued engagement with host communities through targeted interventions in healthcare, education, and skills development. With the signing now complete, the designated offtakers are expected to commence full project implementation to deliver commercial and environmental benefits in line with Nigeria’s ambition to become a gas-led economy.