NMDPRA Updates Gas Code to Enhance Pipeline Access

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority has revised Nigeria’s gas transportation code to enhance pipeline access for shippers, reduce avoidable losses, and strengthen the framework for domestic and cross-border gas trade. Rabiu Umar, the Authority Chief Executive, announced that Revision 2 of the Nigerian Gas Transportation Network Code will establish clearer rules for gas producers, shippers, and transporters as the country expands its pipeline infrastructure.

Umar noted that the first revision had increased the number of shippers using the network and reduced imbalances on the Western Network by about 30 percent. The revised code is expected to become increasingly important as projects like the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben (OB3) pipeline and the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) pipeline expand Nigeria’s gas transportation capacity from 2.2 billion cubic feet per day to 4.4 billion cubic feet per day.

Umar identified the shrinkage factor as an area needing clear rules to prevent operational losses.