Ekperikpe Ekpo

Ekperikpe Ekpo is a Nigerian politician who serves as the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas). and the chairman of the Governing Council of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) since 2024.

Early life and education Ekperikpe Ekpo was born on 20 November 1966 in Ika, Akwa Ibom, Nigeria. He attended St. Dominic Primary School and St. Augustine Secondary School in Akwa Ibom State. He later earned a degree in Biology (Ecology) from the University of Calabar and returned to the university in 2015 to complete a Master’s degree in Environmental Pollution and Toxicology.

Early career Ekpo began his career as a teacher during his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year, serving as Head of Science Department at Ise/Emure Grammar School in Ekiti State. He continued teaching for eleven years at Queen of Apostles Seminary, Afaha Obong, before transitioning into public service in 2002.

Political career

Local government service In 2003, Ekpo was appointed as the Caretaker Chairman of Ika Local Government Council, where he facilitated the completion of a Federal Government electrification project connecting Ika to the national grid. He was elected as Head of the Council in 2004, serving until 2005.

Contributions and achievements Ekpo has overseen significant developments in the gas industry: Facilitated the resolution of the Gas Sales Purchase Agreement for the Brass Methanol Project, unlocking $3 billion in investment. Supervised the commissioning of key gas projects including the Kwale Gas Gathering Hub and LPG transportation infrastructure. Ensured a firm commitment to achieve net zero flare gas emissions which has seen the NNPCL/TotalEnergies Joint Venture achieve zero routine gas flare in all its Nigerian assets.

Personal life Ekperikpe Ekpo is a practicing Catholic and is married to Lady Esitmbom Ekperikpe Ekpo. They have five children. He has been recognized with several awards for his public service, including the traditional title of Obongemem 1 from the Traditional Rulers Council of Ika.