Optimum Utilization of Natural Gas from Marginal Oil Fields in Nigeria

Natural gas is a strategic asset from marginal oil fields which will bring about sustainable development of the Nigerian economy. The study investigates the factors influencing the optimization of natural gas from marginal oil field operations in Nigeria. The method of the study consisted of extensive literature review on utilization of natural gas from marginal field development was carried out and specifically a model of natural gas monetization from Asuokpe/umutu marginal field by Platform Petroleum was as used as a case study. The result of the study revealed that provision of adequate infrastructure and collaboration are some of the critical success factors, while barriers to optimization of natural gas are inadequate funding, monopolistic market structure, weak manufacturing and inadequate linkages. The study recommends adequate infrastructure in terms availability of finance and collaboration by marginal field operators and other stakeholders should provide enabling environment that will lead to optimization of natural gas.