By Kehinde Erin
Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has commended the Federal Government for establishing five mini LNG plants in Ajaokuta Local Government Area of Kogi state.
The Governor expressed his appreciation during the groundbreaking ceremony of the plants in Ajaokuta recently, highlighting the potential benefits of this project for the state and its people.
The five mini LNG plants comprise Prime LNG, NGML/Gasnexus LNG, LNG Arete, Highland LNG, and Bua LNG. This initiative is a collaborative effort between the Federal Government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).
Governor Ododo emphasised the significance of the program in reducing carbon emissions and promoting energy independence, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change in the country.
He noted that the president is backing this initiative to ensure the maximum utilization of energy potentials, demonstrating the government’s commitment to a sustainable future.
Governor Ododo highlighted the establishment of the plants as a game-changer, poised to create a plethora of job opportunities, stimulate local businesses, and enhance critical infrastructure in Kogi State and beyond.
Moreover, he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to investing in education, ensuring that students acquire the technical skills necessary to become employable and contribute meaningfully to the economy.
By doing so, Governor Ododo aims to empower the next generation of leaders and workforce, driving sustainable growth and development in the state.
”As we commence the ground breaking ceremony today , we have not only laid the physical foundation of this plants but also setting the state for a brighter and a more prosperous future for the state,” Ododo said.
Governor Ododo expressed his delight that the decision on the five projects has been finalized and is now in the execution phase.
According to him, this project aligns seamlessly with his administration’s goal of utilizing clean energy solutions to drive sustainable development and enhance the overall quality of life for the people of Kogi State.
”The ongoing ground work to have an airport in Kogi State will give the investing company transportation flexibility to access the location easily and will also beef up security to ensure that both the investors and investment are safe” the governor added.
Minister of Steel, Prince Shuaibu Abubarkar-Audu, highlighted the significance of the ceremony, marking a major milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards achieving energy self-sufficiency and economic prosperity.
He emphasised that the establishment of the five plants in Ajaokuta aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda, aimed at creating a one trillion dollar economy by 2030.
The Minister announced that the country’s energy infrastructure development is poised to rrevolutionize ts energy sector adding that the groundbreaking move is expected to bolster energy security and establish Nigeria as a major player in the global energy market.
Additionally, the Minister reassured the public of President Tinubu’s commitment to reviving the Ajaokuta Steel Company adding that the development aligns with government’s efforts to rehabilitate the steel plant, with plans to commence rehabilitation in the first quarter of 2025.
Chief Pius Akinyelure, Chairman of the NNPC Board, emphasised the project’s potential to provide a cost-effective, long-term, and reliable natural gas solution for industrial and commercial customers.
He highlighted the strategic location of the project in Ajaokuta, which is centrally positioned to serve the northern market adding that the location will enable the project to cater to stranded industrial and commercial customers, offering a suitable alternative to diesel and similar fuels and will also provide backup solutions for customers currently reliant on pipeline gas.
Furthermore, Chief Akinyelure appealed to the host community to collaborate with the government, ensuring the successful execution of the project and ultimately realising the administration’s vision for the region.