energy capacity and reduce gas flaring, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has announced the construction of five mini-Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plants in Ajaokuta, Kogi State. The project, which is expected to produce 97 million cubic feet of gas per day, marks a significant step in the country’s quest for energy sufficiency and economic diversification.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Naija247news gathered that the mini-LNG plants, strategically located in Ajaokuta, will harness Nigeria’s vast natural gas resources to meet growing domestic and industrial energy demands. According to NNPCL’s Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s Decade of Gas agenda, which aims to leverage gas as a transition fuel and a driver of economic growth. “This project underscores our commitment to utilizing Nigeria’s gas resources for national development,” Kyari stated during a press briefing in Abuja.
According to Naija247news, the mini-LNG plants are expected to significantly reduce gas flaring, a long-standing environmental challenge in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. The plants will convert flared gas into usable energy, contributing to the global fight against climate change while creating economic value. “By capturing and processing flared gas, we are not only reducing emissions but also creating a new revenue stream for the country,” Kyari added.
Naija247news understands that the project will also enhance energy access in rural and industrial areas, particularly in the northern region. The Ajaokuta steel complex and other industries in the vicinity are expected to benefit from the reliable and affordable gas supply, which will boost productivity and reduce operational costs. A source close to the project revealed to Naija247news that the plants will also support power generation, potentially addressing the electricity deficit in the region.
The NNPCL has partnered with local and international investors to ensure the timely completion of the project. Naija247news reports that construction is already underway, with the first phase expected to be operational by mid-2026. The initiative is projected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, further stimulating economic growth in Kogi State and beyond.
As Nigeria continues to explore innovative solutions to its energy challenges, the Ajaokuta mini-LNG project represents a landmark achievement. Naija247news concludes that the successful implementation of this initiative could serve as a model for future gas-based projects, positioning Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s energy transition.