The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Gas, Ekperikpo Ekpo, underscored the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in achieving Nigeria’s energy security goals.
The Minister stated this during the Optimera Energy’s flags off construction of gas distribution infrastructure at Lagos Free Zone, saying “today’s ceremony exemplifies the power of such partnerships”.
The Minister also highlighted the significance of natural gas in Nigeria’s pursuit of sustainable energy sufficiency.
The project includes the development of a City Gate Station with a capacity of 25 million standard cubic feet per day, scalable to 100 million standard cubic feet per day, along with ancillary infrastructure.
The Minister underlined the importance of gas in Nigeria’s goal for long-term energy sufficiency.
“Natural gas is a critical component of our energy mix, offering cleaner and more efficient solutions. The infrastructure we are launching today is not just about pipes and stations; it is about powering communities, industries, and dreams. It is about creating a foundation for economic growth, job creation, and environmental sustainability. It is about making Nigeria an economic giant within the sub-region using our abundant gas resources,” he said.
He added: “The development of a 25 million standard cubic feet per day City Gate Station, scalable to 100 million standard cubic feet per day, along with the necessary ancillary infrastructure, reflects not only their dedication but also a shared vision for a thriving and resilient Nigeria.”
The Managing Director of Optimera Energy, Mrs. Audrey Joe-Ezigbo, outlined the components of the infrastructure, including the City Gate Station, distribution lines within the Lagos Free Zone, and a gas pipeline connecting to the Escravos – Lagos Pipeline System.
She highlighted the 20-year Gas Infrastructure Development Agreement (GIDA) signed with the Lagos Free Zone Company to connect off-takers to the gas distribution infrastructure within the zone.
Dinesh Rathi, the CEO of Lagos Free Zone Company, expressed the significance of the project in providing reliable and cleaner energy solutions to meet the needs of current and future tenants at the Lagos Free Zone. The project aligns with the broader goals of enhancing energy security and supporting economic growth in Nigeria.
