Evaluation of Gas Flaring Reduction Strategies at Chevron Nigeria Limited Operations in Delta State, South South Nigeria

Gas flaring remains a persistent challenge in Nigeria's hydrocarbon sector, with associated environmental and economic consequences that directly affect communities in Delta State. This study evaluates the technical and operational effectiveness of gas flaring reduction strategies currently implemented at Chevron Nigeria Limited facilities in Delta State. A descriptive survey methodology is employed, combining review of publicly available flare reduction reports from 2018 to 2023 with field data on associated gas volumes, flare capture rates, and gas-to-power conversion utilisation. The study benchmarks Chevron Nigeria's performance against the targets stipulated under the Nigerian Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme of 2016 and its subsequent revisions. Three key strategies are evaluated: vapour recovery units, gas reinjection for pressure maintenance, and pipeline connectivity to the Escravos Gas Processing Plant. Analysis reveals that gas reinjection programmes have achieved the highest volumetric flare reduction, while vapour recovery unit deployment remains constrained by infrastructure maintenance challenges. The study further examines the economic incentive structures embedded in Nigerian flare penalties and their influence on operator investment decisions. Recommendations are provided for accelerating pipeline infrastructure investments and for policy reforms that would make gas commercialisation economically attractive to smaller independent producers. Keywords: gas flaring, Delta State, Chevron Nigeria, gas commercialisation, flare reduction.