The Federal Government has announced the development of a unified national hydrogen policy as part of its efforts to integrate hydrogen into the country’s energy mix. This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to clean energy and economic diversification.
The government also unveiled a hydrogen development agenda, which aims to position Nigeria as a key player in the global hydrogen economy.
Speaking at the inception meeting with stakeholders on the development of the hydrogen policy, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, underscored the vast potential of both blue and green hydrogen in Nigeria. He cited the country’s abundant natural resources, strategic geographic position, and capacity for industrial transformation as critical factors that could place Nigeria at the forefront of the global clean energy revolution.
“This policy will chart a definitive course for integrating hydrogen into our energy mix while positioning Nigeria as a significant player in the global hydrogen economy,” Ekpo stated.
The Minister highlighted the economic benefits of hydrogen development, which include: Revenue diversification – providing alternative income sources for the nation. Job creation – fostering employment opportunities across multiple sectors. Attraction of local and foreign investments – boosting industrial growth.
Ekpo also emphasised the environmental advantages, noting that hydrogen aligns with Nigeria’s decarbonisation goals and contributes to global climate change mitigation efforts.
Additionally, he pointed out the infrastructure development opportunities, as Nigeria could leverage its existing gas infrastructure to facilitate hydrogen production and distribution. Advancements in energy storage, fuel cells, and transportation systems are also expected to emerge, further driving economic growth and sustainability.
Ekpo called for cross-sectoral collaboration in shaping the hydrogen policy, stressing that a National Hydrogen Policy presents Nigeria with significant opportunities across economic, environmental, and social dimensions.
Similarly, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, reaffirmed his ministry’s commitment to supporting the policy’s delivery. He stressed the urgent need for a hydrogen policy that aligns with: Nigeria’s national development policy; the country’s energy policy; the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Bagudu urged all stakeholders to work together to formulate a policy that Nigeria can be proud of.
Speaking on behalf of the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), Mr. Joshua Garba commended Ministers Ekpo and Bagudu for spearheading the initiative. He pledged GIZ’s continued support in partnering with the Federal Government to unlock the potential of hydrogen energy and emphasised its importance for decarbonisation.
“Countries worldwide are producing hydrogen for global supply, and Nigeria’s move to develop a hydrogen policy is a welcome development,” Garba remarked.
With the hydrogen economy expanding globally, Nigeria’s move to establish a unified national hydrogen policy is expected to attract investment, create jobs, and contribute to environmental sustainability, ensuring the nation remains a competitive player in the global energy sector.
