ABUJA, Mar 26 – Nigeria is seeing increased interest from global buyers for its liquefied natural gas cargoes, as supply disruptions linked to tensions in the Middle East reshape energy trade patterns.
Speaking at the CERAWeek, a senior executive at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company said the country is benefiting from renewed demand due to its strategic location and large gas reserves.
According to NNPC Executive Vice President Olalekan Ogunleye, Nigeria is increasingly being considered by buyers seeking reliable and closer supply options. He noted that the country is positioned about 10 sailing days from Europe and remains well connected to both the Atlantic Basin and Asian markets.
Nigeria LNG, in which NNPC is the largest shareholder, currently has an export capacity of 22 million metric tons per year. The company is also expanding production, with a seventh train under construction and expected to come on stream by 2027.
In addition, discussions are underway to develop two more LNG trains, alongside a separate 12 million metric tons per annum project. These efforts are aimed at unlocking over 200 trillion cubic feet of gas reserves and strengthening Nigeria’s position in the global LNG market.
Industry participants say demand for natural gas remains steady despite geopolitical tensions. Analysts also point to growing efforts by buyers to diversify supply sources, a shift that could benefit emerging LNG producers across Africa and South America.
The renewed interest highlights Nigeria’s role in meeting evolving global energy needs, particularly as markets adjust to ongoing supply risks and changing trade routes.
