The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, has lauded NesGas’s groundbreaking ceremony for a 50,000 Metric Tonnes (MT) Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) depot at the Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone, Onne, Rivers State. Ekpo emphasized the significant prospects of the project, noting its potential to meet Nigeria’s growing energy demands, reduce environmental impact, create employment opportunities, and contribute to overall economic growth.
Ekpo commended NesGas for its investment, considering it a milestone in unlocking Nigeria’s abundant gas potential, supporting cleaner and sustainable energy sources, and diversifying the economy. He highlighted the private sector’s commitment to infrastructure development for clean energy storage, delivery, and consumption.
The gas minister underlined the broader benefits of the project, stating that it would not only have immediate environmental advantages but also stimulate the local economy, generating over 100,000 jobs across the country along the entire value chain.
Ekpo assured gas sector investors that the Federal Government, led by President Bola Tinubu, was actively working to establish transparent laws and regulations, attract funding, and ensure a level playing field for all market players. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering an environment supporting the expansion of the gas industry.
NesGas’s Managing Director and CEO, Mr. Tunde Banjo, outlined the mission to eliminate energy poverty in Africa through strategic investments in gas development initiatives and assets. The 50,000 MT LPG Onne depot marks a significant step toward achieving a brighter and more sustainable energy future for Africa.
The ceremony also featured the signing of partnership and collaboration agreements between NesGas and Gas360, Modern West Advisory, and Hebron Gas Infrastructure Limited.