From Adanna Nnamani, Abuja
The Federal Government, through the Midstream and Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund (MDGIF), has signed joint venture investment agreements with ten additional equity partners to enhance Nigeria’s gas infrastructure and deepen the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) across the country.
Speaking at the signing ceremony at his office in Abuja on Thursday, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas) and Chairman of the MDGIF Governing Council, Ekperikpe Ekpo, described the event as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards achieving energy security, industrial growth, and sustainable development.
“Today’s event is a resounding affirmation of the visionary leadership and unwavering commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu towards unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s gas sector. This signing ceremony reflects not only the alignment of national priorities with practical action but also the profound dedication to fostering growth, enhancing energy security, and building a resilient economy for generations to come,” he stated.
According to Ekpo, under the current administration, the MDGIF has already supported six gas companies within its first year, and with the onboarding of the new partners, ten additional firms will receive equity funding for projects spread across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
“This Fund, and the partnerships it fosters, will pave the way for integrated gas infrastructure, bridging gaps that have long hindered progress. These advancements will not only connect regions but also create a ripple effect of opportunities across industries,” the minister said.
He urged all stakeholders to uphold high standards and ensure the projects contribute meaningfully to job creation, increased energy supply, and economic development.
In his remarks, the Executive Director of MDGIF, Mr Oluwole Adama, explained that the joint venture agreements will structure the partnerships to manage risks, enhance efficiency, and ensure sustainable returns for all parties.
According to Adama, the ten approved projects comprise six gas processing plants aimed at boosting Nigeria’s domestic gas supply capacity. Notably, two of these plants will utilise flare gas as feedstock, contributing to the country’s efforts to reduce gas flaring and environmental pollution.
In addition, three CNG refuelling infrastructures will be developed to promote the use of cleaner energy in transportation and industrial sectors.
Also included in the portfolio is a bulk liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) storage facility, which is expected to address persistent supply chain challenges in the cooking gas market.
“This event goes beyond the mere act of signing documents. It establishes our commitment, fostering relationships, and promoting transparency and trust among stakeholders by setting a positive tone for collaboration, which the MDGIF cherishes,” the Executive Director declared.
The ten beneficiary companies selected for the projects include Ant Energy Ltd, Sub Sea 9 Gas, Wishnefisky Global Concepts, and Waterdance International.
Others are Geospectra Energy, Deemah Integrated Services, Amari Energy Resources, VVT LNG West Africa, LNG Arete, and Sonic Petroleum.