Nigeria Issues License for Groundbreaking Floating LNG Facility**

The Federal Government has granted UTM Offshore Limited a “Licence to Construct” for a pioneering 2.8 million tonnes per annum Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG) facility. This project, the first of its kind in Nigeria, represents a significant advancement in the nation’s gas industry and aligns with the government’s Decade of Gas Initiative aimed at boosting gas production, distribution, and utilisation.

At the official ceremony, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, highlighted the project as a key milestone in President Bola Tinubu’s vision to revolutionize Nigeria’s gas sector. “Today is a significant day in the life of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Gas,” Ekpo stated, underlining the project’s importance to Nigeria’s energy future.

Delivering a message from President Tinubu, Ekpo shared, “I had to cut short my stay in China to return for this pivotal event. I’m here to witness the issuance of licenses to UTM Energy to operate. This facility, with a capacity of 2.8 million tonnes, is the first of its kind in Nigeria.”

The floating LNG facility, to be built offshore, is a critical component of Nigeria’s ambitious plans to expand its gas industry. Ekpo reiterated the administration’s commitment to positioning gas as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy by 2030, in line with the Decade of Gas Initiative.

“This aligns with the President’s vision to enhance gas production, distribution, and utilisation. We are focused on ensuring that gas drives Nigeria’s economy by 2030,” Ekpo affirmed.

He also commended the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) for its thorough process in granting the license and praised UTM’s leadership for their bold initiative. “I commend NMDPRA for their diligence and salute UTM’s CEO, Julius Rone, for taking this bold step. Today’s celebration is a result of their efforts,” he added.

Ekpo assured UTM of the Federal Government’s unwavering support for the successful completion of the FLNG project. “Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, the Federal Government will provide all necessary support and create a conducive environment for you to operate. This project is crucial to our vision of increasing gas production,” he said.

The Minister expressed confidence in UTM’s ability to deliver the project successfully, acknowledging the expertise of the team involved. “I’ve seen the faces of UTM’s team, and I know they are capable of making this project a reality. I celebrate your efforts,” Ekpo said, emphasizing the project’s significance to Nigeria’s leadership in Africa’s energy sector.

Ekpo further stressed Nigeria’s potential to reclaim its status as Africa’s gas leader, calling for continued collaboration between the government and industry stakeholders. “Other nations are rapidly developing their gas sectors. Nigeria, with its abundant gas resources, must remain committed under President Tinubu’s leadership to achieving his vision for our country. Together, we can reach new heights,” he concluded.

This project represents a major step forward in Nigeria’s quest to become a global leader in the gas industry. The UTM floating LNG facility is poised to boost Nigeria’s LNG export capacity, create jobs, and reinforce the country’s position as a key energy supplier on the global stage.