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From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
Kaduna State governor, Uba Sani has expressed excitement as he inaugurated the first-ever Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and Liquefied Compressed Natural Gas (LCNG) facility in Nigeria with daily capacity of 20,000 tonnes for distribution across the country.
Inaugurating the LCNG facility in Kakau area, along Kaduna/Abuja highway on Tuesday, governor Sani who was represented by the State Commissioner of Public Works and Infrastructure, Ibrahim Hamza, said he was delighted to be part of the historic event, adding that the gas will go a long way to reduce socio-economic hardship caused by fuel price hikes and currency fluctuations in the global market.
The project is spearheaded by Greenville LNG, having 20,000 metric tonnes capacity to be distributed across the country from Kaduna as the pivotal station, even with 25 hubs across the country.
Earlier, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the GreenVille LNG, Mr. Eddy Van Den Broeke said the mission of the company extended beyond addressing fuel shortages, adding that it encompasses contributing to a greener and more sustainable Nigeria.
“As we inaugurate this Kakau station, we also unlock investment opportunities for local businesses in Kaduna State’s industrial and automotive gas sectors”. Broeke said.
However, according to governor Sani, “I am delighted to be part of this historic launch of the first Liquefied Compressed Natural Gas (L-CNG) station in Kakau, Kaduna State by Greenville LNG. I congratulate you on this milestone. Since your establishment in 2013, you have been revolutionising the way Nigerians access and utilise energy resources.
“In a time marked by volatile fuel prices and currency fluctuations in the global market, Greenville LNG presents a robust solution in the form of LCNG. This change is not only embraced but enthusiastically welcomed in Kaduna State. It promises to bring not only economic growth but also the revival of various Kaduna-based industries, including textiles, machinery, steel, aluminium, as well as the automotive and oil and gas sectors.
“The provision of a stable power source through the L-CNG gas hub is of paramount importance for micro, small and medium-sized businesses and industries. The development of these hubs will also help in addressing Kaduna State’s pressing need for energy security.
“The transportation sector will benefit a great lot from the introduction of L-CNG. A significant number of keke riders ply the roads of Kaduna daily. For these riders, LCNG represents a cost-effective alternative to high-priced PMS, offering financial relief and reduced stress. Additionally, it promotes ecological peace, as CNG is renowned for its eco-friendliness and emission of less harmful pollutants, ensuring the safety of both our citizens and the environment.
“Our administration is committed to making Kaduna a business hub. Our energy needs are enormous. The Greenville Initiative will reenergise the business environment and provide employment opportunities for Kaduna residents. Energy is a major driver of business. With energy, small businesses will spring to life again. Youths would not only be employed in numbers, they would also have the opportunity to create and innovate. We therefore request Greenville LNG to kindly consider providing more gas hubs in Kaduna.
“The Kaduna State Government eagerly anticipates the positive impact that this groundbreaking initiative will bring to our State and the nation as a whole. We shall give Greenville LNG all the support it requires to make this initiative a resounding success”.
The Greenville Chairman further said, “We stand before you as a testament to the power of innovation and unwavering determination. Our journey began in 2013 with nothing but a steadfast commitment and belief. Now, after a decade of dedication, that ambitious vision has transformed into a remarkable reality. With over 500 LNG trucks, we facilitate the distribution of approximately 20,000 tonnes of LNG across Nigeria, even to the most underserved regions of our nation.
“Today, we find ourselves on the cusp of a new era. Greenville LNG stands at the forefront of the LNG industry, pioneering the way forward with the launch of this groundbreaking L-CNG station, a representation of our unwavering commitment and vision. This facility in Kakau, Kaduna transcends its physical presence; it embodies progress, innovation, and our relentless dedication to the betterment of our great nation.
“I would like to express my deep appreciation for the unwavering commitment shown by our esteemed governors who have passionately supported the initiative to enhance the utilization of natural gas as a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective energy source, in alignment with the “decade of gas” vision.
“We are eager to engage with states that share our vision as we strive to touch every corner of the nation. Our commitment to being at the forefront of the “decade of gas” is unwavering, and we are eager to collaborate with states that share our vision. Our ambitious goal to establish 25 gas hubs across Nigeria, with Kakau as a pivotal cornerstone, will bridge gaps in regions lacking gas pipelines. These hubs will serve as versatile centers, transforming transportation, promoting industrial growth, and delivering clean and cost-effective energy to businesses of all sizes.
“Our mission extends beyond addressing fuel shortages; it encompasses contributing to a greener and more sustainable Nigeria. As we inaugurate this Kakau station, we also unlock investment opportunities for local businesses in Kaduna State’s industrial and automotive gas sectors. This initiative transcends beyond energy; it embodies economic growth, job creation, and an improved quality of life for the people of Kaduna State and beyond”.
