Audrey Joe-Ezigbo, Managing Director of Optimera Energy, has shared her perspective on how businesses can position themselves to thrive in this new energy era.
One of the key challenges facing industries in Nigeria is the unreliable power supply. Joe-Ezigbo pointed out that this issue is not just a matter of inconvenience but a significant barrier to productivity and competitiveness.
“The power sector requires massive investments to meet the growing demand for electricity. But beyond that, businesses need to explore alternative energy sources that are both sustainable and cost-effective. Natural gas is the obvious choice,” she said.
As a consortium of leading energy companies, Optimera is bridging the energy gap by delivering clean, cost-effective, and efficient natural gas solutions to industries and communities.
With over $30 million invested in gas infrastructure and a commitment to commissioning its City Gate Station by Q2 2025, the company is playing a pivotal role in Nigeria’s clean energy transition.
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While speaking on the energy sector, she said, “Nigeria’s energy sector is undergoing a transformation. The current administration’s focus on energy security, coupled with the Decade of Gas initiative, is creating a conducive environment for businesses to grow. But to fully capitalise on this, businesses need to rethink their energy strategies.”
She explained that natural gas offers a dual advantage: it is cleaner than traditional fossil fuels and more reliable than the current power grid. “For industries, this means lower operational costs, reduced carbon footprints, and uninterrupted production. It’s a win-win situation.”
However, transitioning to natural gas requires more than just a shift in mindset, according to Joe-Ezigbo who emphasised the importance of infrastructure development.
“The lack of adequate gas distribution infrastructure has been a major bottleneck. But this is changing. With the PIA in place, we’re seeing increased investments in gas pipelines, processing facilities, and distribution networks. Businesses need to position themselves to take advantage of these developments,” she noted.
She also highlighted the role of strategic partnerships in driving this transition, adding that: “No single entity can solve Nigeria’s energy challenges alone. Collaboration between the public and private sectors is crucial. Businesses should seek out partnerships that provide access to reliable gas supply and distribution networks.”
When asked about the Lagos Free Zone, Joe-Ezigbo described it as a model for what is possible. She said: “The Zone offers businesses a unique environment to thrive. With world-class infrastructure, streamlined processes, and access to international markets, it’s a testament to the potential of strategic investments in energy and industrial development.”
As the conversation turned to the future, Mrs. Joe-Ezigbo expressed optimism about Nigeria’s energy prospects. “The journey to a cleaner, more prosperous Nigeria has begun. Businesses that embrace natural gas as a key component of their energy strategy will be well-positioned to lead in this new era.”
The company’s investments in gas infrastructure shows Optimera Energy is not just addressing the energy needs of today but shaping the energy landscape of tomorrow. For businesses, the message is clear: the future is gas, and the time to act is now.
“Reserves don’t drive industrialisation, infrastructure does. The future of Nigeria’s industrial growth lies in our ability to harness our vast natural gas resources. Businesses that align with this vision will not only survive but thrive in the years to come,” the CEO said.
With the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) ushering in a new era of regulatory, governance, and fiscal frameworks, the oil and gas sector is poised to drive industrial expansion, job creation, and economic resilience.
For businesses, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The challenge lies in navigating the complexities of an evolving energy sector. The opportunity is in harnessing the potential of natural gas as a cleaner, more reliable, and cost-effective energy source.
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