The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, officially launched the inaugural Liquefied to Compressed Natural Gas (LCNG) hub in North-east Nigeria yesterday, highlighting the power of public-private partnerships in furthering the federal government’s ‘Decade of Gas’ initiative.
During the event held in Yola, Adamawa State, Ekpo stressed that the Greenville LNG project sets a new standard for energy accessibility and sustainability.
“The strategic placement of this facility in the North-east is profoundly significant. This region has long endured infrastructural hurdles that have stifled its full economic potential.
“This facility in Yola represents a pivotal moment. It stands as a symbol of hope and opportunity, not only for Adamawa but for the whole region. It illustrates that the benefits of Nigeria’s abundant natural gas resources can and should be accessible to every part of our nation,” he remarked.
A statement from his spokesperson, Louis Ibah, quoted Ekpo asserting that President Bola Tinubu prioritises harnessing Nigeria’s gas resources for economic transformation, industrial growth, and social advancement. He noted that the LCNG model exemplifies such innovation.
This model provides an integrated solution for powering vehicles and industrial machinery with both LNG and CNG, presenting cleaner, cost-effective alternatives to diesel and petrol.
Ekpo stated: “This transformative initiative underscores the federal government’s relentless pursuit of economic growth through the adoption of gas, capitalising on the immense potential of natural gas as a cornerstone of national energy security.
“By utilising advanced technology and innovative models like this LCNG facility, we are establishing a new benchmark for energy accessibility and sustainability. This facility not only delivers energy but also hope, generates jobs, supports businesses, and promotes peace through inclusive development.”
He urged other investors and gas developers to engage in the LCNG project, emphasising the extensive need for such initiatives in underserved communities. He expressed gratitude to the Government and citizens of Adamawa State for their support in providing land and a conducive environment for construction, stating that CNG is both cheaper and cleaner than petrol, affirming that Tinubu has good intentions for Adamawa.
Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, represented by his Deputy, Prof. Kaletapwa Farauta, praised the federal government for facilitating the investment, aligning it with the state’s vision for cleaner, affordable energy sources.
The governor acknowledged the tangible effects of climate change and affirmed that it underpins every initiative aimed at preserving the environment and ensuring citizens have access to clean air.
“We require further intervention from the federal government, and we will do our utmost to ensure the project’s success,” he declared.
Chairman of Greenville, Mr. Eddy Van Ben Broeke, announced a commitment of over $1 billion in investments in Nigeria, with plans to replicate similar projects in other states, appealing to the government for support to realise these ambitions.
