NNPCL, partners, launch five mini-LNG plants in Ajaokuta

 

 

From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja

 

As part of the Federal Government’s efforts to boost natural gas utilization in the country, NNPC Limited and its partners launched five mini-Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Plants in Ajaokuta, Kogi State, with a combined capacity of 97 million standard cubic feet of gas per day (mmscf/d).

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the projects, the Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Gas), Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo described the event as historic and signifying the seriousness the Federal Government attaches to deepening utilization of the country’s abundant natural gas resources.

Ekpo, who assured NNPC and its partners of 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.

“I commend the outstanding efforts of NNPC Ltd. and its partners who worked round the clock to achieve this milestone event,” Ekpo said, praising the teamwork that made the projects possible. “As we look forward to a smooth and safe project delivery of all five plants, the Ministry of Petroleum Resources (Gas) stands with you, NNPC Ltd. and partners, to support initiatives that align with our goals.”

The ceremony signalled the commencement of construction works on the five Mini-LNG plants namely: NNPC Prime LNG, NGML/Gasnexus LNG,
BUA LNG, Highland LNG and LNG Arete.

NNPC Ltd in a statement in Abuja disclosed that it has stake in three of the five mini-LNG plants (90% in Prime LNG, 50% in NGML/Gasnexus LNG and 10% in BUA LNG), while Highland LNG and LNG Arete are
developed by other private companies.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Group CEO, NNPC Ltd, Mele Kyari reaffirmed the company’s unwavering commitment to Federal Government’s gas-to-power
aspirations, noting that natural gas holds the key to unlocking a bright and prosperous future for Nigeria, and a catalyst for industrialization, job creation, and economic diversification.

He said the projects play a critical role in increasing access to energy for millions of Nigerians, providing job opportunities, promoting economic growth and contributing to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), while creating
opportunities for gas commercialisation and supporting the Federal Government’s
flare down initiatives.

“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 utilizing gas resources to fuel industrialization, achieve energy security and foster economic growth and development.

In his remarks, Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for locating the 5 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 in investment, including direct and indirect employment for the state’s teaming 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.