Nigeria Launches First Digital Platform for Gas Trading, Settlement
The Federal Government has introduced Nigeria’s first fully digital platform for gas trading, clearing and settlement, a development expected to reshape transparency and efficiency in the nation’s gas market.
The platform, formally known as the Gas Trading Licence, Clearing House and Settlement Authorisation, was unveiled in Abuja and represents a major step in the digital transformation of Nigeria’s gas value chain.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Hon Ekperikpe Ekpo, described the launch as a “new dawn” for the domestic gas sector.
He said the system will streamline natural gas trading through transparent pricing structures, market-driven price discovery and secure payment mechanisms.
According to him, these features are central to strengthening investor confidence and supporting the sustainable growth needed to unlock the full value of Nigeria’s gas reserves.
Ekpo commended the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), under the leadership of Chief Executive Farouk A. Ahmed, for spearheading the initiative in collaboration with JEX Markets Limited.
He said the introduction of the Gas Trading Licence signals the beginning of a structured and regulated market that promotes reliability, offers clarity for business planning and attracts long-term investments, all while ensuring the protection of public interest.
NMDPRA Chief Executive Farouk A. Ahmed said the launch reflects successful collaboration between the Authority and major industry stakeholders.
Ahmed explained that the platform advances NMDPRA’s mission to transform Nigeria into a competitive hub for domestic gas supply and trading.
He noted that the Authority will continue to implement a strong, transparent and technology-driven regulatory framework to guarantee investor confidence and support sustained capital inflows into the midstream and downstream gas segments.
The new platform aligns with broader digitalisation efforts aimed at strengthening regulatory oversight, boosting investment opportunities and improving operational transparency across Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
Recently, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) launched a digital bid portal for the 2025 Licensing Round as part of its push to attract global investors, deepen exploration activities and enhance openness across the upstream value chain.
NUPRC Chief Executive Gbenga Komolafe said the portal represents a modern shift towards a more efficient and investment-friendly regulatory environment.
The launch of the gas trading and settlement platform is expected to lay the foundation for a more competitive domestic gas market, while supporting the Federal Government’s broader objective of positioning natural gas as a key driver of economic growth, energy transition and industrial expansion.
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