The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has launched five mini-Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plants in Ajaokuta, Kogi State, in a move aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s gas-to-power aspirations, driving industrialization, and creating job opportunities.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday, the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of NNPCL, Mele Kyari, described the initiative as a strategic move to enhance Nigeria’s gas-to-power aspirations, drive industrialization, and create job opportunities.
“These Mini-LNG plants will provide cleaner and cheaper energy to households, businesses, and industries, especially in areas without gas pipeline infrastructure,” Kyari stated.
NNPCL holds significant stakes in three of the five plants—90% in Prime LNG, 50% in NGML/Gasnexus LNG, and 10% in BUA LNG—while Highland LNG and LNG Arete are developed by private investors.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, hailed the project as a milestone in Nigeria’s energy sector. “Natural gas remains a key driver for economic growth, industrialization, and prosperity. This initiative aligns with the government’s vision to harness our abundant gas resources for national development,” he said.
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, expressed gratitude for the investment in his state, emphasizing the economic benefits. “These plants will create direct and indirect employment opportunities for our people and attract more investments to Ajaokuta,” he remarked, assuring full state government support.
NNPCL Board Chairman, Chief Pius Akinyelure, described the project as a bold step towards achieving Nigeria’s energy security and economic transformation under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The new LNG facilities are expected to boost energy availability, reduce carbon emissions, and support the Federal Government’s gas commercialization and flare-down initiatives.
