IEA says methane emissions near record high, urges abatement to unlock gas markets

The International Energy Agency reported that methane emissions from the energy sector stayed near record levels in 2025, based on satellite and measurement data. The Global Methane Tracker 2026 says tried-and-tested abatement measures could make 200 billion cubic metres of natural gas available each year. Specifically, countries with spare gas export capacity and importing partners could quickly unlock 15 billion cubic metres, while longer-term measures could deliver nearly 100 billion cubic metres annually and ending non-emergency gas flaring could add another 100 billion cubic metres.

For Nigeria, this matters because the country joined over 50 nations at the Colombia talks to launch world-first fossil fuel exit discussions, signaling a shift toward energy security through cleaner gas. Capturing this gas via abatement could boost national revenues, reduce wasteful flaring, and align Nigeria with global market opportunities, especially as international gas prices remain elevated—shown by U.S. prices above $6 per gallon at some stations.

What should Nigerians know or do? Policymakers and industry players should evaluate investing in methane detection and repair technologies to tap these potential gas volumes, consider how abatement fits with Nigeria’s fossil fuel exit commitments, and monitor local impacts on gas supply and pricing. Will Nigeria’s gas sector prioritize abatement to claim these billions in cubic metres, or continue relying on flaring despite growing global pressure?

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/05/04/energy-sector-methane-emissions-linger-near-record-highs-iea/