NNPC Launch Five Mini-LNG Plants in Ajaokuta
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas) Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo speaks during the groundbreaking ceremony of 5 Mini-LNG Plants in Ajaokuta, Kogi State, on Thursday. The Minister is flanked by the Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo (1st right); Chairman, NNPC Ltd Board, Chief Pius Akinyelure (2nd left) and GCEO, NNPC Ltd, Mele Kyari (1st left).
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited have launched five mini-Liquiefied Natural Gas (LNG) Plants in Ajaokuta, Kogi State. The Plants, launched alongside partners, have a combined capacity of 97 million standard cubic feet of gas per day (mmscf/d).
NNPC stated that this furthers its efforts to deepen domestic gas utilisation, in line with the FG’s gas revolution agenda.
The launch took place on Thursday, signalling the commencement of construction works on the five Mini-LNG plants. The plants are NNPC Prime LNG, NGML/Gasnexus LNG, BUA LNG, Highland LNG and LNG Arete.
NNPC has a stake of 90% in Prime LNG, 50% in NGML/Gasnexus LNG and 10% in BUA LNG. But Highland LNG and LNG Arete are developed by other private companies.
Speaking during the event, Mele Kyari, Group Chief executive officer of NNPC Ltd reaffirmed the company’s commitment to the Federal Government’s gas-to-power aspirations. He noted that natural gas holds the key to unlocking a bright and prosperous future for Nigeria. “It is a catalyst for industrialization, job creation, and economic diversification.”
The project, according to Kyari will play a critical role in increasing access to energy for Nigerians, providing job opportunities, promoting economic growth and contributing to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). He also said it would create opportunities for gas commercialisation and support the FG’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 said.
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. And also achieve energy security and foster economic growth and development.
In his remarks, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas) Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo described the development as an unprecedented feat in the history of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. He said natural gas remains a veritable vehicle for accelerating Nigeria’s industrialization, economic growth and prosperity.
Ekpo assured NNPC and its partners of the FG’s support. He stressed that the initiatives align with the Government’s aspirations of harnessing Nigeria’s abundant gas resources for National economic development. And also reducing the Nation’s carbon footprint and enhancing the well-being of Nigerians.
For Usman Ododo, Governor of Kogi State, the project will drive the implementation of the gas revolution agenda of the President. He said it would unlock over $500 million in investment. And also ensures huge benefits for Nigeria, creates jobs, stimulates local businesses, and boosts infrastructure in the host communities.
“This project is a testament to what can be achieved with partnership. The groundbreaking will set the stage for a brighter and more prosperous future for Kogi State and Nigeria.
“This project aligns with our vision of leveraging clean energy for driving industrialisation and will boost Kogi’s aspirations to become an industrial hub,” he added.
