By Obiabin Onukwugha
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the proposed 200 million standard cubic feet per day (200 MMSCFD) Ibom Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) project in Akwa Ibom State.
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, gave the assurance at a stakeholders’ meeting on gas supply for the project on Tuesday.
Ekpo said the project, to be located in the Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone in Eastern Obolo Local Government Area, will help Nigeria optimise its vast natural gas resources for domestic consumption and export.
He described it as an important step toward developing the country’s gas sector and creating new economic opportunities.
According to him, the facility, when operational, has the potential to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, attract investments and stimulate growth of local businesses.
The minister noted that the project will strengthen Nigeria’s energy security, support gas-based industries, increase government revenue and promote industrial development in Akwa Ibom and other parts of the country.
Ekpo commended the management of Ibom LNG led by Mr. Jimmy Ntuen for its commitment to the project.
He also lauded the Executive Vice President, Gas, Power and New Energy of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), Mr. Olalekan Ogunleye, for the company’s willingness to collaborate with private investors to advance gas development and commercialisation.
He stressed that cooperation among Ibom LNG, NNPC Ltd. and other stakeholders will be critical to successful delivery and reliable gas supply to end-users within and outside Nigeria.
The minister further commended Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for his support, particularly the prompt provision of land for the project, saying it demonstrates commitment to investment attraction, economic growth and job creation.
Ekpo said the project aligns with the Federal Government’s drive to leverage natural gas for economic growth and industrial development under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Gas to Prosperity agenda.
“Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Gas to Prosperity agenda, we are determined to harness Nigeria’s gas resources as a catalyst for economic growth, industrial development, job creation and improved livelihoods, while expanding export opportunities,” he said.
