Nigeria’s leadership seeks stronger global gas cooperation, investment
MOSCOW, RUSSIA — The 8th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) has opened at the World Trade Centre in Moscow, Russia, with Nigeria’s Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, presiding over proceedings.
Ekpo assumed the presidency of the GECF Ministerial Meeting for 2026 following his designation at the Forum’s 27th Ministerial Meeting held in Doha, Qatar, in October 2025.
The summit brings together leaders and representatives of major gas-producing countries to strengthen international cooperation and deliberate on critical issues affecting the global natural gas industry.
Discussions at the gathering are expected to focus on opportunities for collaboration among member countries, the future of the global gas market and the strategic role of natural gas in meeting growing energy demands.
Nigeria’s leadership of the 2026 GECF Ministerial Meeting provides an opportunity to deepen international partnerships, attract investment into the country’s gas sector and promote the development of natural gas as a catalyst for economic growth and industrialisation.
Natural gas remains an important component of Nigeria’s energy development strategy, with significant potential to support electricity generation, industrial activities, employment creation and government revenue.
The country’s participation in the summit also underscores its interest in strengthening its position in the international gas market while working with other gas-producing nations to advance energy security and sustainable economic development.
The GECF serves as a platform for cooperation and dialogue among major natural gas-producing countries on issues relating to gas resources, market developments and the role of natural gas in the global energy mix.
