Seplat Energy Plc has reaffirmed that oil and gas will remain a core component of Nigeria’s energy mix for the foreseeable future, emphasizing the need for responsible, efficient, and sustainable operations across the sector.

Speaking on behalf of CEO Roger Brown at a high-level climate roundtable in Lagos, Okechukwu Mba, Director of Gas & New Energy, highlighted that the central challenge for Nigeria’s energy industry is not its relevance, but how operators manage environmental, social, and economic responsibilities.

“Oil and gas will continue to be important, but the key question is how responsibly the industry conducts itself,” Mba said. He added that measurable actions, including improved efficiency, reduced emissions, and credible offset strategies, are essential to demonstrating real commitment.

Seplat Energy has already implemented initiatives to eliminate routine gas flaring across its onshore assets, with projects now in the commissioning stage. The company has also deployed real-time emissions monitoring systems and a robust asset integrity program to identify and prevent emissions from critical infrastructure.

Beyond operational controls, Seplat Energy is pursuing nature-based solutions, including an afforestation initiative in Edo State aimed at planting millions of trees over five years. The company is also expanding gas and LPG infrastructure, improving domestic energy access while reducing reliance on biomass fuels such as firewood and charcoal.

Mba stressed the importance of financing for gas and gas-to-power projects, noting that inefficient diesel and petrol generators currently provide much of Nigeria’s electricity. “Replacing these with gas-powered solutions could drive significant decarbonization, but adequate financing is essential,” he said.

The event also launched the NGX Net-Zero Programme (N-Zero), designed to help listed companies define credible net-zero pathways, enhance climate-related disclosures, and attract climate-linked capital estimated between $2.5 billion and $3.1 billion. NGX Group officials emphasized the role of Africa’s capital markets in driving climate action and sustainable growth, while DEG highlighted the program’s alignment with private capital mobilization for development outcomes.

Seplat Energy’s commitment reflects a broader industry push to balance continued energy supply with environmental stewardship, innovation, and social responsibility, setting a benchmark for responsible operations in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.