The Special Adviser to the Ag President on Petroleum and Energy, Dr Emmanuel O Egbogah, has charged the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to duplicate the modules of Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) of creating enough markets for LNG as well as boosting the economic fortunes of the nation.

Egbogah, who was overwhelmed by what he called world-class NLNG facility told newsmen shortly after tour of the Nigerian LNG plants that there are available markets for LNG that are waiting to be tapped.

The Special Adviser noted that Nigeria is blessed with abundant reserves of associated and non associated gas, which according to sources is estimated in excess of 180 trillion cubic feet (tcf).

Nigeria ranks seventh in terms of proven natural gas reserves in the world and first in Africa. The NNPC owns 49% of the shares in Nigeria LNG Limited, Shell gas BV holds equity share of 25.6% of NLNG while Total LNG Nigerian Limited and Eni International have 15% and 10.4% shares respectively in the Nigeria gas company.

Egbogah said with available statistics, Nigeria can remain a major player in world gas market and urged the NNPC that has the largest shares in Nigeria LNG to rise to the challenge of building what he called ‘mini LNG plants in strategic areas of the country not only to create markets but also to provide job opportunities for many idle hands.

He said the federal government was working out  modalities for the 10% equity participation of host communities on oil and gas exploration in the respective areas.

He also called on oil and gas communities to give peace a chance in government’s efforts to address their plight and give the people a sense of belonging in government’s scheme of things.

NLNG managing Director, Chima Jonathan Ibeneche agreed that Nigerian LNG has attained a status of global interest with a commitment to build a better Nigeria by processing, shipping and marketing efficiently and profitably the country’s gas resources.

Ibeneche said environmental challenges not technical arising from the spate of insecurity in the oil and gas-rich Niger Delta region remained major problem attainment of corporate goals of the company.

He, however, thanked the government of Governor Chibuike Amaechi for  its efforts to check militancy in the area. There are 500 strong JTF personnel providing security at the LNG complex and facilities across the state.

The NLNG general manager, Production, Mats Gjers while briefing the President’s aide listed key success factors  of the company. They include excellent production delivery, reliable world-class HSE, strong shareholders support, close corporation with government and sustainable approach to community development relations.