The Federal Government is dedicated to replicating mini LNG initiatives throughout all geopolitical regions of the nation in accordance with President Tinubu’s strategies to stimulate the economy utilizing natural gas, as stated by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Mr. Ekperikpe Ekpo.
Ekpo made this announcement at the ongoing Nigerian International Energy Summit (NIES), which entered its second day in Abuja yesterday.
The Minister recognized the NNPCL GCEO, Mr. Mele Kyari, for the mini-LNG initiative and also emphasized the substantial advancements made in gas infrastructure development, policy reforms, gas utilization, and domestic initiatives, signifying a noteworthy transformation for the sector.
He asserted that Nigeria’s gas sector has experienced considerable change under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.
Ekpo further praised NNPCL and private sector partners for their investments in mini LNG projects within the nation.
The collaboration has led to the establishment of five mini LNG plants – Prime LNG Plant, BUA LNG, Highland LNG, NGML/GasNexus LNG, and LNG Arete in Ajaokuta, Kogi State – all aimed at accelerating Nigeria’s industrialization, economic advancement, and prosperity by extracting gas from existing pipelines, liquefying it, and distributing it to remote areas, particularly in the Northern Region.
“The Federal Government is attracting investments in LNG, CNG, and gas-to-chemicals, and by nurturing a business-friendly climate, Nigeria is cultivating a sustainable gas ecosystem that promotes industrialization, job creation, and energy security, ensuring a cleaner and more prosperous future. ”
The Gas Minister, who also participated in the ministerial panel during the event, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the Decade of Gas initiative, initiated in 2021, which aims to position Nigeria as a leading gas-powered economy by 2030 through infrastructural expansion, increased domestic consumption, and export growth. Key projects encompass pipeline development, gas-based industries, and gas-to-power initiatives.
In response to the 2023 fuel subsidy elimination and subsequent rise in petrol prices, the government launched a nationwide compressed natural gas (CNG) program to provide affordable and environmentally responsible transportation alternatives.
“With over 100,000 vehicles targeted for conversion and a $200 million investment in CNG infrastructure, this program is vital in reducing transportation expenses and enhancing energy sustainability,” stated Ekpo.
The Obrikom, Obiafo, Oben (OB3) and Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline projects remain flagship endeavors in Nigeria’s national gas expansion initiative, according to Ekpo.
He mentioned that the AKK pipeline, spanning 614 kilometers, is anticipated to improve gas supply to significant industrial and commercial centers across Nigeria.
“With an expected completion date set for 2025, this $2. 8 billion initiative will stimulate industrialization, generate employment, and attract investments in manufacturing and power generation.”
