By Suleiman Abdulmumin
In my capacity as the Senator representing Kogi Central District (Ajaokuta Local Government Council being a catchment) and as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content, I am delighted to extend my profound gratitude to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the Federal Government of Nigeria for the establishment of five Mini Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plants in Ajaokuta Local Government, Kogi State.
This remarkable development, which will have its groundbreaking ceremony on the 30th of January 2025 in Ajaokuta LG of Kogi State, is a significant milestone in our collective efforts to promote cleaner energy alternatives, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance energy security across our nation. It demonstrates the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to implementing sustainable energy policies that align with global best practices while fostering economic growth and environmental protection.
The establishment of these Mini LNG plants is a testament to the government’s dedication to providing innovative solutions to meet the energy demands of our people. By tapping into the vast natural gas resources in Kogi, these plants will create employment opportunities, stimulate industrial development, and ensure access to cleaner and more affordable energy for households, businesses, and industries.
I wish to particularly commend the NNPC and its leadership under the GCEO Mele Kyari and the Hon. Minister of State Petroleum (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, for their forward-thinking approach in driving this transformative initiative. The deployment of Mini LNG plants showcases the Federal Government’s determination to diversify our energy mix, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and transition toward cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.
As the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content, I am equally pleased to note the local participation and inclusion of indigenous expertise in the execution of this project. This not only enhances the capacity of our local workforce but also aligns with the goals of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act (2010) in fostering homegrown skills and technology transfer.
The Mini LNG plants hold the promise of significant environmental benefits through reduced carbon emissions and air pollution, paving the way for a cleaner and greener future. Additionally, these plants will address the persistent energy supply challenges in the region, boost industrialization, and attract local and foreign investments, thereby transforming Ajaokuta into an energy hub in Nigeria.
As we celebrate this achievement, I reaffirm my commitment to advocating for sustainable policies and initiatives that prioritize the well-being of our people and the development of Kogi Central District. I urge all stakeholders to continue to work collaboratively to ensure the success and longevity of this laudable project.
Once again, I express my heartfelt appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Federal Government, Hon. Minister of State Petroleum (Gas) Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, and the NNPC for this strategic intervention that will undoubtedly transform the socio-economic landscape of Ajaokuta Local Government, Kogi State, and beyond.
Together, we are building a brighter, cleaner, and more prosperous Nigeria.