In a major push to expand domestic gas utilization and drive industrialization, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) and its partners have commenced the construction of five mini-Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plants in Ajaokuta, Kogi State.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held on Thursday, marks a strategic step in the Federal Government’s Gas Revolution Agenda, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to harnessing natural gas for economic growth and energy security.
The five mini-LNG plants—NNPC Prime LNG, NGML/Gasnexus LNG, BUA LNG, Highland LNG, and LNG Arete—will collectively process 97 million standard cubic feet of gas per day (mmscf/d). NNPC Ltd. holds stakes in three of the projects: 90% in Prime LNG, 50% in NGML/Gasnexus LNG, and 10% in BUA LNG, while the remaining two are privately developed.
Boosting Energy Access, Reducing Emissions
Speaking at the event, NNPC Ltd.’s Group CEO, Mele Kyari, emphasized the transformative potential of the projects.
“These Mini-LNG facilities will ensure the efficient transportation of gas over long distances, providing a cleaner and cheaper energy source to households, industries, and businesses,” Kyari stated.
He noted that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s gas-to-power agenda, creating job opportunities, supporting economic growth, and contributing to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The projects will also advance gas commercialization while reducing gas flaring in line with Nigeria’s environmental commitments.
Kyari credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support in unlocking Nigeria’s gas resources, stressing that natural gas remains central to industrialization, job creation, and economic diversification.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Gas Development
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, hailed the initiative as a historic milestone in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
“Natural gas is a veritable vehicle for Nigeria’s industrialization and economic prosperity. The Federal Government fully supports these projects as they align with our goal of harnessing gas for national development,” Ekpo stated.
He added that expanding domestic gas use would reduce Nigeria’s carbon footprint, ensure energy security, and improve living standards.
Kogi State Welcomes Investment, Promises Support
Expressing gratitude for the project, Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, described the development as a major win for the state’s economic growth.
“These plants will bring massive investment opportunities and create direct and indirect employment for our people,” the governor noted.
Ododo assured that the state government would provide manpower, security, and community support to ensure the project’s smooth execution.
Marking a New Era in Nigeria’s Energy Sector
Chairman of NNPC Ltd., Chief Pius Akinyelure, emphasized that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, signaling a new chapter of sustainable energy, industrial growth, and energy security.
The launch of these mini-LNG plants marks a bold move in Nigeria’s transition towards a gas-driven economy, offering cleaner energy alternatives while fostering industrial and economic development across the country.