NNPC Ltd, Partners Launch Five Mini-LNG Plants in Kogi
The Nigeria National Petroleum Company Ltd, NNPCL, and its partners have launched the construction of five mini-Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Plants in Kogi State with an expected combined capacity of 97 million standard cubic feet of gas per day (mmscf/d).
The groundbreaking ceremony held on Thursday in Ajaokuta, was in furtherance of the state-owned oil company’s efforts to deepen domestic gas utilisation in Nigeria.
The five plants are NNPC Prime LNG, NGML/Gasnexus LNG, BUA LNG, Highland LNG and LNG Arete.
NNPCL has stake in three of the five plants. It has 90% stake 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.
All in all, the plants have a combined capacity of 97 million standard cubic feet of gas per day (mmscf/d).
The partnership represents a strategic leap towards energy sufficiency, off-grid industrial support and carbon emission reduction in the country.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Group Chief Executive Officer, NNPC Ltd., Mele Kyari reaffirmed the company’s unwavering commitment to Federal Government’s gas-to-power aspirations
He noted that natural gas holds the key to unlocking a bright and prosperous future for Nigeria, and a catalyst for industrialisation, job creation, and economic diversification.
He said the projects will increase access to energy for millions of Nigerians, provide job opportunities, and promote economic growth, as well as contribute to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
According to him, it will also create opportunities for gas commercialisation, and support Federal Government’s flare down initiative.
“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 industries, achieve energy security and foster economic growth and development.
In his remarks, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, said the simultaneous launch of the five LNG plants was 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 industrialisation, economic growth and prosperity.
Ekpo assured NNPC Ltd. and its partners of Federal Government’s support, and stressed that the investment aligns with government’s aspirations of harnessing Nigeria’s abundant gas resources for national economic growth and development, reducing carbon footprint and enhancing the well-being of Nigerians.
In his remarks, Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo expressed appreciation to the company for locating the plants in the state.
He expressed the belief that the plants would unlock opportunities in various areas which lead to direct and indirect employment for the teaming population.
He pledged the state government’s support for the project through manpower supply, provision of adequate security and collaboration with the host community.
Also, the Chairman of NNPC Ltd., Chief Pius Akinyelure said the project was a significant advancement in Nigeria’s energy sector, signaling a new era of sustainable energy, energy security, and industrial growth.