By Patrick Idowu
President Bola Tinubu has flagged off the construction of a massive Compressed Natural Gas Mother Station in Akwa Ibom, a project expected to revolutionize Nigeria’s energy sector.
The groundbreaking ceremony took place on Thursday in Uquo Isi Edoho, Esit Eket Local Government Area.
Tinubu, represented by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources Gas, Ekperikpe Ekpo, described the project as a game changer that aligns with his administration’s Renewed Hope Initiative.
With a capacity of ten million standard cubic feet per day, the station will promote cleaner and more affordable energy, reduce reliance on petrol, and boost the local economy.
Tinubu praised Nsik Oil and Gas Limited for leading the investment and urged more private sector participation in Nigeria’s energy transition.
The President revealed that the Federal Government has injected over two hundred and twenty two billion naira into the gas sector, with an additional four hundred billion naira set for release in two months.
He assured that the completed project would significantly lower gas prices and create job opportunities, particularly for youths in Akwa Ibom.
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Nsik Oil and Gas, Nsikan Johnny, hailed the project as a bold step towards energy security and economic empowerment.
He emphasized that it would stimulate growth across various sectors, including transportation and domestic energy consumption.
The Chairperson of Esit Eket Local Government Area, Inemesit Ikot, pledged support for the project but called for employment opportunities to benefit local youths and prevent restrictiveness.
Tinubu urged the host community to ensure a peaceful environment, stressing that the project would transform Esit Eket into an investment hub while fostering sustainable development.
