In a significant move to boost domestic gas utilization, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPC Ltd.) and its partners launched five mini-liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plants in Ajaokuta, Kogi State.
This groundbreaking event held yesterday, marks the commencement of construction for the plants, which are designed to enhance Nigeria’s energy capacity and economic development.
The five mini-LNG plants include NNPC Prime LNG, NGML/Gasnexus LNG, BUA LNG, Highland LNG, and LNG Arete. NNPC Ltd. holds significant stakes in three of these plants, with 90% in Prime LNG, 50% in NGML/Gasnexus LNG, and 10% in BUA LNG, while Highland LNG and LNG Arete are being developed by other private entities.
Together, these plants will have a combined capacity of 97 million standard cubic feet of gas per day (mmscf/d).
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This collaboration between NNPC Ltd. and private investors represents a strategic leap toward energy sufficiency, off-grid industrial support, and a reduction in carbon emissions across the nation.
The mini-LNG plants are expected to revolutionize gas transportation, making energy more accessible to households, businesses, and industries, particularly in regions lacking gas pipeline infrastructure.
Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of NNPC Ltd., emphasised the importance of natural gas in powering Nigeria’s industrialization, job creation, and economic diversification.
He reiterated the company’s commitment to the FG’s gas-to-power initiatives, which aim to increase energy access, promote economic growth, and contribute to national GDP.
Additionally, the plants are expected to support the FG’s flare-down goals and provide cleaner, more affordable energy options.
Kyari credited President Bola Tinubu’s support for advancing gas utilization and infrastructure projects as essential for achieving energy security and industrial growth in Nigeria.
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, lauded the development as a milestone for Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
Ekpo reaffirmed the FG’s support for the initiative and highlighted the strategic role of natural gas in driving industrialization, reducing Nigeria’s carbon footprint, and improving the well-being of its citizens.
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Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, appreciated the FG for selecting Ajaokuta for the mini-LNG plants.
He described the move as a step forward in achieving Nigeria’s energy security and underscored the potential economic opportunities the plants would generate for the state, including job creation and investment opportunities.
Governor Ododo also pledged full support from the state government to ensure the success of the project.
Pius Akinyelure, Chairman of NNPC Ltd., described the launch as a transformative development in Nigeria’s energy sector, aligning with the FG’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Akinyelure noted that the project signals a new era of sustainable energy, energy security, and industrial growth for Nigeria.
The completion of these mini-LNG plants is set to reshape Nigeria’s energy landscape, ensuring cleaner and more accessible energy for millions while driving economic growth and development across the country.
