Abuja: The Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs is supporting the Federal Government of Nigeria to develop a methane tracker aimed at reducing emissions in the oil and gas sector. This initiative was announced by Adam Heal, the Executive Director of Stakeholder Democracy Network (SDN), during a workshop held in Abuja. The event, organized by SDN in partnership with Nigeria’s central government, focused on the theme ‘Presentation of the Prototype Methane Tracker’.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, methane is a potent greenhouse gas released during oil and gas production, processing, and transportation. Its contribution to climate change is significant, making the reduction of methane emissions crucial for climate mitigation efforts. Heal emphasized the importance of the methane tracker, which will enable Nigeria to effectively monitor emissions, maintain credible data from emitters in the oil and gas sector, and assist in implementing effective regulations.
Heal highlighted SDN’s ongoing support in tracking
and monitoring methane emissions in Nigeria. The tracker, being developed in collaboration with the Federal Government and supported by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aims to enhance the identification of major methane sources. This initiative is expected to facilitate prompt and appropriate responses from the government, regulatory agencies, and the private sector.
The tracker is designed to integrate freely available data into a platform tailored to the needs of Nigerian regulators and industry. Heal described it as a one-stop shop for regulators, offering real-time information and helping identify companies making efforts to reduce methane emissions. The tracker will provide credible data for companies striving to demonstrate their commitment to emission reductions.
Dr. Jude Samuelson, Head of Environment at SDN, stated that the tracker would simplify the process for the government and regulatory agencies to access credible data, aiding in global emission reduction reporting. He stressed the impo
rtance of accurate reporting for Nigeria’s nationally determined contributions.
The workshop marked the first phase of presenting the prototype to regulators in the oil and gas sector, allowing for feedback and recommendations. Ms. Adesola Olatunde, a representative of the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat, recognized the tracker as a significant milestone for Nigeria. She called for detailed collaboration and engagement with stakeholders to ensure the tracker aligns with national priorities and facilitates accurate reporting.