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FG reaffirms commitment to gas-driven economic growth
From Adanna Nnamani, Abuja
As part of efforts to advance domestic gas utilisation and support Nigeria’s Gas Revolution Agenda, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) and its partners have launched five mini-Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plants in Ajaokuta, Kogi State.
According to a statement issued by NNPC Spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye, the groundbreaking ceremony, which took place on Thursday, marked the commencement of construction for the five facilities: NNPC Prime LNG, NGML/Gasnexus LNG, BUA LNG, Highland LNG, and LNG Arete.
Together, the plants boast a total capacity of 97 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscf/d), with the goal of enhancing gas supply for both industrial and domestic purposes.
NNPC Ltd holds a significant stake in three of the projects: a 90% stake in Prime LNG, a 50% stake in NGML/Gasnexus LNG, and a 10% stake in BUA LNG. Meanwhile, Highland LNG and LNG Arete are being developed by private investors. This initiative is anticipated to improve energy security, lower carbon emissions, and bolster off-grid industries.
Speaking at the event, NNPC Ltd’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, reiterated the company’s steadfast dedication to the Federal Government’s gas-to-power objectives. Kyari noted that natural gas is crucial for unlocking a promising future for Nigeria and serves as a catalyst for industrialisation, job creation, and economic diversification.
According to the NNPC boss, the projects are vital in increasing energy access for millions of Nigerians, generating job opportunities, fostering economic growth, and contributing to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), while also paving the way for gas commercialisation and supporting the Federal Government’s flare-down initiatives.
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“These mini LNG facilities will ensure the efficient transportation of gas over long distances, providing a cleaner and cheaper source of energy to households, mobility, industries, and businesses. This is particularly important for regions that currently lack access to gas pipeline infrastructure,” Kyari added.
He attributed the Company’s strides in upstream and gas infrastructure projects to the unwavering support of President Bola Tinubu in utilising gas resources to fuel industrialisation, achieve energy security, and foster economic growth and development.
In his remarks, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, who described the development as an unprecedented feat in the history of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, said natural gas remains a veritable vehicle for accelerating Nigeria’s industrialisation, economic growth, and prosperity.
Ekpo, who assured NNPC Ltd. and its partners of the Federal Government’s support, stressed that the initiatives align with the Government’s aspirations of harnessing Nigeria’s abundant gas resources for national economic development, reducing the nation’s carbon footprint, and enhancing the well-being of Nigerians.
Also speaking, Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for locating the five mini-LNG plants in the state, describing it as a step forward in Nigeria’s march towards attaining energy security.
The governor, who commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the leadership of NNPC Ltd, and its partners for finding Ajaokuta and Kogi State worthy of gas investments, added that the plants will unlock ample opportunities for investment, including direct and indirect employment for the state’s teeming population.
He assured of the state government’s support for the project through manpower supply, provision of adequate security, and host community collaboration at the projects’ various sites from commencement to completion.
