Nigeria’s Q1 Gas Production Rises Marginally to 687bscf, Flaring Drops 8%

Nigeria's gas sector demonstrated modest growth in the first quarter of 2026, with total gas production rising by about 3 percent and gas flaring declining by over 8 percent year-on-year, according to data from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).

Analysis of NUPRC's gas production status reports reveals that total gas output increased from 667.27 billion standard cubic feet (bscf) in Q1 2025 to 687.09 bscf in Q1 2026. This growth of approximately 19.81 bscf signifies a steady expansion in Nigeria's gas sector, aligning with the government's objectives to deepen gas utilization and monetization.

Monthly production figures show fluctuations, with January 2026 output slightly lower than the previous year. However, production rebounded in February and March 2026, with March recording the highest monthly output within the reviewed period. This upward trend in production is complemented by a marked improvement in gas flare management.

Total gas flared in Q1 2026 decreased to 46.83 bscf from 50.95 bscf in Q1 2025, a reduction of about 4.12 bscf, or roughly 8.1 percent. Consequently, the average gas flare rate dropped from 7.65 percent in Q1 2025 to approximately 6.81 percent in Q1 2026, indicating that a larger portion of produced gas is now being captured for productive use.

The data also highlights a significant structural shift in Nigeria's gas production. Associated gas, produced alongside crude oil, declined during the period. In contrast, non-associated gas production, originating from standalone gas projects, saw substantial growth. This suggests an increasing reliance on dedicated gas developments rather than gas production linked to crude oil extraction, pointing towards a more diversified and focused gas sector.