The Association of Energy Correspondents of Nigeria (NAEC) has announced October 9, 2025, as the date for its annual conference, with the theme: “Nigeria’s Energy Future: Exploring Opportunities, Addressing Risks for Sustainable Growth.”
The event is scheduled to take place at Eko Hotel & Suites, Lagos.
The chairman of NAEC, Ugo Amadi, in a statement, emphasised that the 2025 edition promises to be robust and insightful, reflecting ongoing developments in Nigeria’s energy industry amid the global push for energy transition.
According to Amadi, keynote speakers headlining the event include, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo; Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (oil) Heineken Lokpobiri; Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu and and Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso.
Also expected are representatives from international energy organizations such as the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), as well as Chief Executive Officers of international oil companies (IOCs), independent energy companies as well as national oil companies and other leading industry figures.
Amadi added that the conference will conclude with the release of a comprehensive report highlighting Nigeria’s energy investment landscape, policy recommendations for regulatory reforms, the establishment of a stakeholder network, and the identification of key investment opportunities.
Chairman of the 2025 Conference Planning Committee, Dr. Adeola Yusuf, stated that the conference aims to bring together stakeholders, experts, and policymakers to deliberate on the challenges and prospects within Nigeria’s energy landscape.
He noted that discussions during the conference will focus on unlocking investment, advancing sustainable growth, and driving innovation across the sector.
Yusuf explained that key topics will include an in-depth analysis of Nigeria’s energy policy and regulatory framework, the impact of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) on investment, and the roles of regulatory bodies such as the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) in fostering investor confidence.
“Another major segment of the conference will spotlight “Accessing Financing and Investment Opportunities for Gas”, with panellists expected to assess the current investment climate, infrastructure development, the role of local and international financial institutions, and innovative financing models such as Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) and crowdfunding,” he said.
Speaking on the power-focused panel session, Dr. Yusuf revealed that discussions would centre around “The Power Solution: Energy Infrastructure, Technology and Integration.”
He noted that the session will also explore issues such as post-privatisation finance challenges, renewable energy integration, and how technology can drive energy efficiency.
According to the source in the ministry, there were multiple rounds of meetings since the beginning of the year under the supervision of government authorities, leading to the milestone agreement.
The agreements were to promote industrial harmony, boost national production and enhance the overall wellbeing of workers in the oil and gas sector.
The agreement also clearly indicated direction to both parties under adherence to federal laws and industry regulations.
The agreement also underscores Sterling Oil’s dedication to upholding regulatory compliance, fostering capacity development for Nigerian professionals, and sustaining open dialogue with stakeholders.
In the spirit of mutual respect and long-term collaboration, both parties reaffirmed commitment to internal resolution of matters and proactive engagement in addressing future issues.
Sterling Oil appreciated PENGASSAN leadership, the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, the Ministry of Labour and Employment, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), and NNPC Limited for their roles in facilitating a fair and forward-looking agreement.
This resolution marks a positive step toward strengthening trust and cooperation across the industry
Sterling Oil said it remains focused on contributing to Nigeria’s energy development through sustainable and inclusive practices along with mutual collaboration from respective unions.
With over 20 years in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, Idowu David, an expert mechanical engineer and thought leader, discusses solutions to pipeline vandalism, safety lapses, and regulatory gaps. In this interview, he advocates for digital tools, community involvement, modern infrastructure, and sustained Corporate Social Responsibility, drawing from his experience with Chevron and technical expertise in pipeline welding and facility management. Excerpts:
In your experience, what are the main causes of pipeline vandalism and oil theft in Nigeria, and what measures can be taken to address them?
Having worked in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector for over two decades, I’ve come to understand that pipeline vandalism and oil theft are rooted in both socio-economic and infrastructural issues. Unemployment, poverty, and a feeling of marginalisation among host communities often contribute to these problems. Technically, the sheer length and isolation of many pipeline networks make them susceptible to illegal tapping and damage.
To combat this, I believe a multi-layered strategy is required. The use of real-time monitoring technologies such as drones, SCADA systems, and smart sensors can greatly enhance our ability to detect and respond to breaches quickly. Equally important is involving local communities by employing residents as surveillance contractors. When people have a stake in protecting the infrastructure around them, they are less likely to harm it. Moreover, both government and oil companies must prioritise visible and sustained community development to bridge the gap between expectations and reality.
From your technical background in pipeline welding and maintenance, how can Nigeria enhance pipeline security and integrity?
Pipeline integrity, from a technical standpoint, begins with quality materials, precision fabrication, and strict maintenance. Unfortunately, many pipelines in Nigeria have exceeded their designed lifespan without proper refurbishment.
To improve this, we must invest in upgrading pipeline infrastructure with corrosion-resistant materials and advanced welding methods like automated orbital welding, which offers consistent, tamper-resistant joints. Regular inspections using intelligent pigging technology can help detect weaknesses early. It is also vital to train and empower more local technicians with the skills needed to handle modern repair techniques. Building this local capacity is key to ensuring sustainable improvements in pipeline safety and reliability.
What impact do you anticipate the removal of petroleum subsidies will have on fuel storage and distribution from a technical and safety perspective?
Removing petroleum subsidies will likely lead to more competition and efficiency in the downstream sector. However, it also presents risks, particularly the temptation among some operators to cut corners on safety to reduce costs.
There will be a growing need for tighter regulatory oversight to ensure storage facilities and distribution fleets adhere to international safety standards. To safeguard lives and property, investments in depot modernisation, reliable product testing, and robust inventory management will be essential. I also foresee a need for clearer safety guidelines and closer collaboration between regulators and industry stakeholders to protect the public and the environment.
How can Nigeria reduce the frequent tanker explosions and fires on its roads?
From my experience, many of these tragic incidents are avoidable. Common causes include poorly maintained vehicles, overloading, and untrained drivers.
Mandatory annual inspections for all petroleum tankers should be enforced. Drivers must be properly trained in safety procedures and emergency response. Tankers should meet strict roadworthiness standards and be equipped with GPS tracking and driver fatigue monitoring systems to reduce human error. Public awareness campaigns along transport routes can also help communities understand how to respond in emergencies, potentially saving lives.
Based on your background in HVAC and facility management, what improvements can the oil and gas sector make in workplace safety and operational efficiency?
Workplace safety in the oil and gas sector can be significantly enhanced by improving air quality and ventilation—particularly in confined spaces where dangerous gases may build up.
Installing smart HVAC systems with gas detectors, auto shut-off valves, and predictive maintenance tools can help ensure equipment is running safely and efficiently. Regular facility audits, emergency drills, and ongoing employee training are all crucial in fostering a culture where safety comes first. A proactive approach not only prevents accidents but also improves overall operational performance.
From your experience with safety compliance, what are the main gaps in Nigeria’s oil and gas safety regulations, and how might they be addressed?
One of the most pressing issues is inconsistent enforcement of existing regulations, often due to limited capacity within regulatory agencies. There is also a lack of localised safety standards that reflect Nigeria’s specific environmental and socio-economic context.
To address this, I recommend reviewing and updating safety codes in collaboration with stakeholders. Training inspectors, improving reporting systems through digital platforms, and offering incentives for voluntary adherence to higher safety standards would all help foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
How can the use of digital tools and predictive maintenance improve safety and reliability in the Nigerian oil and gas industry?
The integration of digital technologies like IoT sensors, AI-based predictive maintenance, and real-time data analytics has the potential to revolutionise how we maintain equipment.
Rather than waiting for something to break, these tools allow us to anticipate problems and carry out timely interventions, which reduces downtime and enhances safety. In an environment like Nigeria where reactive maintenance is still prevalent, embracing a predictive maintenance culture could significantly reduce equipment failure and improve both safety and efficiency.
Based on your experience working with Chevron, how would you assess the company’s role in corporate social responsibility and community development?
From my years working with Chevron, I’ve witnessed the company’s commitment to capacity building, local content development, and health initiatives. For example, Chevron built a medical waste incinerator for the Lagos State Government in Epe. I have been responsible for about 60% of the plant’s operations and maintenance under our Facility Management team since 2009.
Their Global Memorandum of Understanding (GMoU) model has been particularly impactful, giving host communities a voice in determining their development priorities. Chevron has also contributed to educational programmes, skill acquisition schemes, and environmental protection. While there is still more to be done in terms of inclusiveness, their efforts stand out and have set an example for others in the industry.
Pipeline leakage and underground pollution—what advice would you offer in situations like the one in Baruwa, Lagos?
The situation in Baruwa, where leaking pipelines have polluted groundwater, is a serious reminder of the urgent need for infrastructure renewal. The government must act swiftly to replace old pipelines with modern, corrosion-resistant alternatives.
Equally important is empowering communities to play an active role in protecting these pipelines through initiatives such as Community Pipeline Protection programmes. Establishing local environmental health monitoring teams can help detect issues early. For residents already affected, access to clean water, soil remediation, and fair compensation must be prioritised. Lastly, environmental regulations should be updated to hold both vandals and negligent operators accountable.
Can you tell us a bit about your personal background and what led you into the oil and gas industry?
I was born and raised in Aiyetoro City, Yewa North Local Government Area in Ogun State. As a child, I was always curious about how machines worked. At the age of 12, I began an apprenticeship in welding and mechanical engineering. That early exposure to hands-on technical work laid the foundation for my career.
Over the years, I’ve developed a deep passion for mechanical systems particularly pipeline welding, fabrication, HVAC systems, and facility management. My experience with HVAC mechanical systems has equipped me with the skills to ensure proper ventilation, climate control, and workplace safety in complex industrial environments. It complements my core expertise and plays a vital role in supporting health, safety, and operational efficiency.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that success in this industry demands constant learning. As technology evolves, so must we. I remain committed to professional growth, and I take pride in mentoring others and contributing to a safer, more efficient oil and gas sector in Nigeria.
In a historic moment for Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, the new Otakikpo crude oil terminal, the country’s first indigenous onshore crude export facility in over five decades built by Green Energy International Ltd “GEIL” operator of Otakikpo field concluded the first export on Sunday, June 8, 2025.
The first cargo from the terminal was lifted by off-taker vessel MV by Shell by 14.hrs, a proof of the successful construction and operational readiness of the terminal.
Congratulating all the parties, involved in the technical test run of the facility, Chairman of Green Energy International Limited (GEIL), Prof Anthony Adegbulugbe appreciated God for making the operations successful and the resilience of the entire indigenous staff of the company who pulled through the complex endeavors. He also expressed the gratitude of the company to all the regulatory agencies who supported and supervised the epoch event.
This was contained in a statement, the GEIL management issued to The Nation on Sunday.
The newly constructed terminal boasts an initial storage capacity of 750,000 barrels, with potential expansion to 3 million barrels.
It also features a 360,000 barrels per day pumping capacity for loading export tankers, making it one of the most significant infrastructure projects in Nigeria’s energy landscape.
Adegbulugbe said the project, completed ahead of schedule in under two years, has already made history as the first privately developed crude oil terminal by an African operator.
With an initial investment exceeding $400 million and a full-phase development projection of $1.3 billion, GEIL’s commitment to expanding Nigeria’s oil export infrastructure is evident.
The Otakikpo terminal is designed to accommodate up to 250,000 barrels per day of crude injection, while the Otakikpo field currently produces around 10,000 barrels per day.
This opens strategic opportunities for third-party producers, particularly over 40 nearby stranded fields estimated to hold more than 3 billion barrels of oil equivalent (BOE). GEIL’s infrastructure provides cost-effective evacuation for stranded oil, positioning Nigeria for increased production and export growth.
Energy analysts have hailed the Otakikpo terminal as a game-changer for Nigeria’s oil sector, citing its potential to significantly boost output while reducing dependence on offshore export terminals.
With rising global demand for African crude, the terminal is poised to attract more investors and strengthen Nigeria’s position in the international energy arena.
As Nigeria continues to modernize its oil infrastructure, the successful completion of GEIL’s Otakikpo crude oil terminal underscores the country’s capacity for innovative energy solutions, fostering sustainable growth for years to come.
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) had initially issued separate letters to the NMDPRA CEO, Engr. Farouk Ahmed, demanding his resignation and accusing him of mismanagement of public funds, job as well as contract racketeering, and abuse of office.
The letters, dated May 27, 2025, had threatened to mobilise millions of students across the country to protest against the NMDPRA leadership.
NANS had slated June 4-5 for a clarification visit to the NMDPRA headquarters while NAPS set June 12, 2025, as the date for the planned protest.
However, in a sudden reversal, both unions have withdrawn their demands and protest notices.
In a letter dated June 2, 2025, NANS through Comrade Opeyemi Samson Ajasa apologised for any inconvenience caused by its earlier statement, citing further investigations and engagements with stakeholders that revealed the allegations were based on unverified information.
“We have discovered that the issues raised in our earlier correspondence are unfounded, misleading, and do not accurately reflect the true state of affairs within the agency,” Comrade Adeyemi Samson Ajasa, NANS Public Relations Officer, said in the letter.
“We wish to reaffirm our readiness to collaborate with Engr. Farouk Ahmed and the NMDPRA to bridge the communication gap between the youth and student constituency and the agency.
“We understand that our earlier letter was based on incomplete information, and we regret any harm it may have caused,” Comrade Ajasa added.
“We are committed to working with the NMDPRA leadership to ensure that our concerns are addressed in a constructive and peaceful manner.”
“NANS is committed to upholding the values of truth, fairness, and constructive engagement,” Comrade Ajasa emphasized.
“We believe that dialogue and cooperation are essential in resolving issues, and we are willing to work with the NMDPRA leadership to achieve this goal.”
NAPS also withdrew its protest notice in a letter dated May 3, 2025, signed by Comr. Eshiofune Paul Oghayan.
The union cited the need for constructive dialogue and responsible engagement with the NMDPRA leadership, rather than resorting to protests.
“We believe that protests should be a last resort, and we are willing to engage with the NMDPRA leadership to resolve our concerns,” Oghayan said.
“We are committed to seeking truth and justice, and we will work with the NMDPRA leadership to ensure that our concerns are addressed.”
“As student leaders, we have a responsibility to our members to ensure that their interests are protected and promoted,” Oghayan added.
“We will continue to engage with the NMDPRA leadership to ensure that our concerns are addressed in a constructive and peaceful manner.”
“NAPS is committed to promoting transparency and accountability in the management of public institutions,” Oghayan emphasised.
“We will continue to work with the NMDPRA leadership to ensure that our concerns are addressed and that the interests of our members are protected.”
In a landmark strategic business move proactively taken to accelerate Nigeria’s transition to sustainable energy renewal, a leading global energy company in the Republic of China —GAC Energy Technology Company Ltd— was on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, signed a business partnership with Tochil Group— as the two multi- million dollars companies are set to formalize strategic partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), for collaboration and accelerated economic development, amid commendations.
GAC Energy Technology Limited (hereinafter referred to as GAC Energy) and Nigeria’s Tochil Group held a signing ceremony of the agreement in Nansha District of Guangzhou City Xu Wenqiang, Director of International Business Department of GAC Energy Technology Limited, and Tochil Nwaneri, Chairman of Tochil Group, attended the ceremony and signed the agreement on behalf of both parties.
Tochil Group is a Nigerian conglomerate with businesses in real estate, infrastructure, energy, banking, and other sectors. Under the agreement, Tochil Group will introduce GAC Energy’s advanced products and solutions. We will use our own advantages to jointly promote the construction of Nigeria’s new energy infrastructure, the sales, application and operation of solar energy solutions, explore new business cooperation models in the field of new energy resources, and promote the transition of Nigeria to clean energy.
The business partnership is aimed at promoting the adoption of the use of renewable energy and setting up charging stations across the country will facilitate sustainability of the green economy, while developing the infrastructure and business landscape of Nigeria.
This strategic business partnership underscores both companies’ commitment to fostering clean energy solutions and enhance improved rural and urban electrification across the country; as the two parties have expressed readiness to expand operations beyond Nigeria into other African markets, reflecting a shared vision for continental growth.
Looking ahead, GAC Energy will continue to welcome partners with an open mind, fully utilize the technological advantages and the advantages of digital operational services laid out across the ecosystem industrial chain, actively expand high-quality energy services, and strive to create value for a beautiful green mobile life.
Both GAC Energy Technology Company Ltd and Tochil Group have expressed willingness to collaborate on clean energy initiatives and innovation-driven development, reflecting a shared commitment to sustainability and national growth.
The MoU business signing ceremony was witnessed by the following: Mr. Wenqiang Xu (许文强) – Minister, International Business Department, GAC Group, Mr. Deqiang Gao (高德强, General Manager, Asia Region, International Business Department, GAC Group, Mr. Edward Wang (王磊) General Manager—Middle East and Africa Region, International Business Department, GAC Group, Amb. Dr. Tochil Nwaneri, Chairman , Tochil Group.
The Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, yesterday inaugurated the first-ever Liquefied to Compressed Natural Gas (LCNG) hub located in the Northeast of the country in Yola, Adamawa State.
A press statement quoted the minister as describing the project being promoted by Greenville LNG as a strong testament to the potential of public-private collaboration in advancing the Federal Government’s ‘Decade of Gas’ agenda.
“The strategic location of this facility in the Northeast also carries deep significance. For far too long, this region has faced infrastructural challenges that have limited its full economic potential.
“This facility in Yola marks a significant turning point. It is a beacon of hope and opportunity, not only for Adamawa State but for the entire region. It demonstrates that the benefits of Nigeria’s vast natural gas resources can and must reach every corner of our country,” he said.
According to the minister, President Bola Tinubu has made it a national priority to harness Nigeria’s gas resources for economic transformation, industrialisation, and social development. He said the LCNG model is a perfect example of such innovation as it creates an integrated solution for powering vehicles and industrial equipment with both LNG and CNG, offering cleaner, cheaper alternatives to diesel and petrol.
Said Ekpo: “This transformative project highlights the Federal Government’s unrelenting efforts to drive economic growth through gas adoption; building on the immense promise of natural gas as a cornerstone for national energy security.
“By leveraging advanced technology and innovative models like this LCNG facility, we are setting a new benchmark for energy accessibility and sustainability. This LCNG facility is not only delivering energy but also delivering hope, creating jobs, enabling businesses, and fostering peace through inclusive development.”
He therefore called on other investors and gas developers to invest in the LCNG project, noting that there is still so much ground to cover and so many communities that remain underserved. He also thanked the Government and people of the state for their support of the project through the provision of land and a conducive environment for construction by contractors, saying CNG is cheaper and cleaner than petrol, and that President Tinubu means well for Adamawa and that’s why he is working to ensure the state is hooked up for CNG gas.
The Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, represented by his deputy, Prof. Kaletapwa G. Farauta, commended the Federal Government for facilitating the investment, saying it aligns with the vision of the state government for cleaner and affordable energy sources.
The governor noted that the state has witnessed the impact of climate change and that it is real and is behind every policy and project geared at saving the environment and ensuring that citizens live and breathe healthy air.
“We will need more of the federal government’s intervention, and we will do our best to ensure that the project succeeds,” the governor said.
The Chairman of Greenville, Eddy Van Ben Broeke, said the company was committing over $1 billion as investments in the country and that similar projects will be replicated in other states, and called on the federal and state governments for support to bring them to fruition.
Major energy solutions company, Oando PLC, Nigeria’s yesterday announced the successful upsizing of its Reserve Based Lending (RBL2) facility to $375 million.
The refinancing, led by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) with the support of Mercuria, extends the final maturity date of the facility to January 30, 2029.
In recent years, financing arrangements for the acquisition, development, and operation of oil and gas assets have commonly been structured as Reserve-Based Loans (RBLs). Under this model, the amount a borrower, in this instance Oando, can access is directly tied to the size and value of their proven reserves, with Oando’s standing at 1.0Bnboe —referred to as the Borrowing Base.
This upsizing is a result of the Company’s significant progress in deleveraging, having substantially reduced the original $525 million RBL2 facility, signed in 2019, down to $100 million by the close of 2024. This proactive debt management has paved the way for successful refinancing.
Speaking on this strategic achievement, Mr. Wale Tinubu, Group Chief Executive, Oando PLC, said: “We are pleased to have completed the upsizing of our RBL2 facility, a strategic milestone that reinforces our commitment as Operator of the Oando-NEPL JV to maximizing the value of our expanded asset portfolio. Our Joint Venture holds extensive reserves with the potential to generate over $11 billion in net cashflows to Oando over the assets’ life. This working capital facility is a critical enabler towards efficiently extracting and monetizing these resources. We appreciate the continued partnership of Afreximbank and Mercuria, whose unwavering support underscores their alignment with our long- term focus on maximizing production, optimizing asset performance, and delivering sustainable value to all stakeholders.”
According to official, the newly secured capital injection will be strategically deployed to aggressively pursue key growth initiatives, including accelerated drilling campaigns, critical infrastructure upgrades across its operations, and the implementation of advanced operational efficiencies throughout its portfolio. These strategic investments directly support the Company’s stated ambition to significantly increase its production levels to 100,000 barrels of oil per day (bopd) and 1.5 billion cubic feet (Bcf) of gas per day by the end of 2029.
This positive development follows Oando’s landmark $783 million acquisition of the Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC) from Italian energy giant, ENI, in August 2024. This transformative acquisition significantly expanded Oando’s operational landscape, incorporating twenty-four currently producing fields, approximately forty identified exploration prospects and leads, twelve key production stations, an extensive network of approximately 1,490 km of pipelines, three vital gas processing plants, the strategic Brass River Oil Terminal, the significant Kwale-Okpai phases 1 & 2 power plants boasting a total nameplate capacity of 960MW, and a comprehensive suite of associated infrastructure.
This successful refinancing underscores the confidence of leading financial institutions in Oando’s strategic direction and its ability to capitalize on its expanded asset base to drive growth and value creation in the Nigerian energy sector and beyond.
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), and the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (Pi-CNG) on Friday, set the tone for deeper penetration of the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The Managing Director Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, described the ceremony which took place at the Mobolaji Johnson Mega Station at Yaba, as a critical leap towards a sustainable future for the railway industry.
He also described the partnership as another befitting celebration of the second anniversary of the Tinubu administration which last year commenced the advocacy for cleaner natural energy transition to power transportation.
Dr Opeifa who recalled the journey of the Initiative as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s response to the removal of petrol subsidy, said evidence has shown that the adoption of the CNG, would ultimately lead to significant drop in carbon footprint, a cut in the soaring rate of food inflation and boost the economy.
He described the Renewed partnership between NRC and the Pi-CNG as a significant step towards a cleaner, more efficient rail transportation system as the rail, which is the safest cost effective means of transporting goods and passengers with the least carbon footprint relies on traditional fossil fuel.
“It is time to explore alternative options that benefit both our operations and the environment. Today, we strive to further reduce our carbon footprint by converting our locomotives and other diesel powered equipment to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).”
Opeifa said the CNG will help cut down on maintenance cost by between 60-70%, contribute to improved air quality and reduce dependence on petrol and diesel, apart from stimulating economic growth by creating jobs and provides significant savings for the railway industry.
‘This collaboration will save the corporation between N50 million to N100 million monthly, translating to N1.2 billion yearly, which can be deployed to other areas of need for the corporation,” he said.
Opeifa said the collaboration with the Pi-CNG will focus on four key areas: conversion of existing diesel locomotives, and especially all diesel generators and operational vehicles across all its offices to training of students at the Corporation’s training centres as conversion technicians.
Other collaboration include facilitating the distribution of transportation of CNG-Powered tricycles and conversion kits across the country, and the deployment of CNG buses for last mile shuttle services, thereby enhancing intermodal mobility and efficiency at the rail stations.
He lauded the Pi-CNG for donating CNG -powered bus to the NRC, and the branding of coaches by Pi-CNG to create awareness for the initiative.
On his part, the Programme Director of the Pi-CNG Engr. Michael Oluwagbemi
said the count of CNG-propelled vehicles have moved from less than 50,000 last year, to over 100,000 while the Programme hopes to convert no fewer than 250,000 and hoping to achieve the Presidential mandate of conversion of one million commercial buses to CNG by 2026.
He said has had to confront misinformation about the CNG and it’s massive adoption by Nigerians are true testimony that Nigeria is ripe for a new transition energy to power its transportation needs.
He said since last year the Pi-CNG has attracted over $500 million investment in the establishment of Mother and Daughter stations as platforms for ensuring the CNG penetration, apart from creating 25,000 direct employment in the CNG ecosystem.
He said the Pi-CNG would love to establish daughter stations for the NRC at Ebute Metta and Abuja, to enable the use of gas either to power the locomotives of to provide gas to power rail operations.
Oluwagbemi said the Pi-CNG would be leveraging on the NRC to establish more conversion centres across the country in order to encourage greater adoption and access to the product by Nigerians. He added that the idea is to have not less than 250,000 centres across the country, from the about 50,000 as at May, this year.
In her goodwill message, the Managing Director of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), Engr Abimbola Akinajo, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for removal of subsidy on fuel and diving straight for the CNG.
She said: “We are excited at LAMATA by that pronouncement by Mr President. We have been waiting for this because it gave us the necessary backing.”
She said LAMATA would continue to partner with Pi-CNG in its initiatives aimed at promoting cleaner and environmental friendly energy in the country.
Others who also spoke in same vein lauded the partnership which they said would further promote greater visibility and enhance the penetration of the CNG by motoring public.
Total Energies EP Nigeria (TEPNG) has signed an agreement with Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Ltd (SNEPCo) for the sale of its non-operated 12.5 per cent interest in the OML118 Production Sharing Contract (PSC) for $510 million.
OML118 PSC is operated by SNEPCo with 55 per cent holding, in partnership with Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria, with 20 per cent equity holding, TotalEnergies EP Nigeria 12.5 per cent and Nigerian Agip Exploration with 12.5 per cent.
The field is located deep offshore at 120 km south of the Niger Delta, it contains the Bonga field, which started production in 2005, as well as the Bonga North field, the development of which started in 2024. Production from the OML 118 PSC, which is mainly oil, represents approximately 11,000 boe/d in Company share in 2024.
In a statement yesterday, TotalEnergies, said completion of the transaction is subject to customary conditions, including regulatory approvals.
President Exploration & Production at TotalEnergies, Nicolas Terraz, said: “TotalEnergies continues to actively high-grade its Upstream portfolio, to focus on assets with low technical costs and low emissions, and to lower its cash breakeven.
“In Nigeria, the company is focusing on its operated gas and offshore oil assets and is currently progressing the development of Ubeta project, designed to sustain gas supply to Nigeria LNG,” he stated.
