The Nation Newspaper

Category: Energy

  • Tinuade steered EKEDC to enviable heights

    Tinuade steered EKEDC to enviable heights

    Stakeholders have applauded the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC), Dr. Tinuade Sanda for her transformative leadership role. 

    The endorsement is coming amid the furore at EKEDC. 

    She was praised for her remarkable increase in monthly collections, reaching an impressive 17.1 billion Naira.  

    She further knocked critics for the baseless attacks aimed at tarnishing her reputation especially her educational antecedent. 

    This was contained in a statement issued concerning her sterling achievement: 

    The statement read: “Dr. Tinuade educational background is impeccable, with degrees from renowned institutions across the world. Dr. Tinuade leadership is a testament to the transformative power of ethical leadership, ensuring that EKEDC continues to thrive and serve the Nigerian people with excellence.

    “She completed her undergraduate studies in Accounting with second class upper honours at the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife. Subsequently, she pursued her MBA in Strategy at Heriot-Watt University,  Edinburgh and received certifications from Harvard Business School, Executive Education in “Finance in Senior Executives” in 2015 and “Management Essentials” in 2023.”

    “Dr. Tinuade Sanda’s PhD was conferred in 2020 by the University of Management Science and Technology, Republic of Benin, before the concerns regarding accreditation by the National Universities Commission emerged in 2023, an issue faced by some other international institutions including Volta University College, Volta region Ghana, Columbus University, UK, among others. 

    “With Dr. Tinuade receiving her doctorate in 2020, two years before her appointment as Managing Director in 2022, it is evident that her academic qualifications were attained independently of her professional advancement. It is also worth noting that a Ph.D. was not a prerequisite for her MD position, rendering any speculation about the desperation for a Ph.D. illogical. 

    Read Also: EKEDC gets additional 33 feeders on Band A to boost electricity supply

    “Dr. Tinuade, a Fellow of ICAN, one of the most prestigious institutions in her field, is the President of the Old Students Association of Accounting, class of 2001 of the Obafemi Awolowo University Ile Ife, demonstrating her strong affiliation and connection to her alma mater. 

    “Her career is well-documented, including her tenure at organizations such as, Chartered Bank that later merged with Stanbic IBTC and Access Bank, prior to joining WPG and being seconded to EKEDC. Each of these firms conducted thorough investigations before appointing her at various times.”

  • GEIL, NCDMB commence training of Nigerians in oil and gas engineering

    GEIL, NCDMB commence training of Nigerians in oil and gas engineering

    In compliance with the Nigerian Oil and Gas Content Development Act, Green Energy International Limited (GEIL), the operator of Otakikpo marginal field OML 11, Lekoil Oil & Gas Investment Limited (JV) in partnership with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has commenced the training of several Nigerians in oil and gas engineering.

    Aimed at closing the skill gap in the oil and gas industry,and with focus on the engineering sector, the training will deliver the required skill set necessary to meet the growing demand within the sector.

    Speaking at the maiden edition held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Fatimah Mohammed Amate, Government Relations Manager at GEIL noted that “The training will be delivered by Dexterous Applied Training Institute and will targetseveral Nigerians from across various geo-political zones and participants will be trained in the areas of Piping Engineering, Safety Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Health and Safety at the work place, Nigerian content awareness, among others.”

    Also commenting, HRH Spriff Serena-Dokubo and Dr. Lyb Udochu, both Directors at GEIL noted that the company’s commitment to the development of the oil and gas industrycannot be over emphasized.

    According to HRH Serena-Dokubo, “The top 5 performing trainees will be offered employment immediately after the training. He further commended the leadership of the NCDMB for their coordination and synergy with GEIL towards the success of the training.”

    In his remarks, Dr. Lyb Udochu encouraged all participants in the program to take the opportunity offered by the company seriously, adding that “over the years, GEIL hasensured that its core thematic areas are geared towards providing direct social investment programmes to address development deficits through employment, training and retraining, empowerment of women and youths, capacity building and skill acquisition, health outreaches, scholarships and direct community contracts.”

    One of the beneficiaries of the training, Chimaobi Nwachukwu highlighted the importance of the training, confirming that it would equip them with the competitive advantage necessary to excel in the oil and gas sector. He said “From my point of view, the programme would provide us with the required skill to be employable in the oil and gas industry and be more valuable to the society.”

  • NGA hails FG on gas policy directives

    NGA hails FG on gas policy directives

    The Nigerian Gas Association (NGA) has commended the Federal Government for the recent Gazetting of three pivotal policy directives in the oil and gas sector. 

    The directives, which encompass multifaceted strategies, including introducing fiscal incentives for non-associated gas, midstream, and deep water developments, streamlining the contracting process to compress the contracting cycle to six months, and applying local content requirements without hindering investments or cost competitiveness, the NGA noted, is a monumental leap towards unlocking investments in the sector.

    The NGA President, Aka Nwokedi, in a statement made available to The Nation, described the new policy directives as transformative milestones poised to revolutionise the country’s oil and gas sector energy landscape, with gas as a critical enabler.

    He was emphatic that the strategic introduction of fiscal incentives for non-associated gas, midstream, and deepwater developments is poised to attract substantial investments, bolster security measures, escalate production rates activities, amplify domestic gas utilisation, and refine the ease of doing business within the sector.

    Read Also: Sustaining new gas pricing template

    Nwokedi further noted that streamlining the contracting process to expedite the current 36-month contracting cycle to just six months is a game-changer. 

    “This would significantly reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks and enhance operational efficiency across the sector. This streamlined approach will catalyse project execution, optimise resource allocation, and foster a conducive environment for local and international investors.

    “Moreover, applying local content requirements without compromising investments or cost competitiveness underscores the government’s commitment to fostering sustainable development and empowering local stakeholders. These directives could pave the way for inclusive growth, knowledge transfer, and skill development within the Nigerian workforce by balancing local content obligations and investment incentives.

    “We commend the Federal Government for its unwavering commitment to driving positive change and fostering a conducive environment for investment in the oil and gas sector,” stated Mr. Nwokedi. “These progressive policy directives mark a significant leap forward in our collective journey towards a sustainable energy future and bolstering security across Nigeria,” Nwokedi said in the statement.

    The NGA  reiterated the its steadfast commitment to collaborating with the Federal Government to actualise the nation’s strategic energy objectives, focusing on leveraging gas as a pivotal enabler of economic prosperity and national development.

  • CCDI, UW Plan World Bank session on oil theft in Nigeria

    CCDI, UW Plan World Bank session on oil theft in Nigeria

    The Centre for Convention on Democratic Integrity (CCDI), a non-governmental organisation operating in Nigeria and Maryland, United States with United Nations Consultative Status and University of Washington will jointly hold a session on “Sustainable energy security in Nigeria: Issues, challenges and prospects” during the spring meetings of World Bank & IMF Boards of Governors Meetings between April 15-20 at Washington DC, United States.

    ln the statement jointly issued by Olufemi Aduwo who is the Permanent Representative of (CCDI) and Professor Dan Schwart, a Director of Clean Energy, University of Washington, the objectives are to highlight the challenges of oil theft and international dimension and how to tackle this menace and also the prospects available to potential investors. 

    Hon Wally Adeyemo, the Nigerian-American and the current Deputy Secretary of Treasury, United States, will deliver a keynote message at the session.

    Aduwo added that the mission of CCDI is to ensure that the world remains an unparalleled community of freedom, peace, security, and shared values, including individual liberty, human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. 

    “We are united in our commitment to the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations the three main pillars: Peace and Security, Rights and Sustainable Development,” he explained..

    He said, since 2012, the organisation has organised sessions during World Bank & IMF Boards of Governors meetings and also at United Nations, New York on global and regional socio-political issues. 

    Commenting on the lingering crisis between Russia and Ukraine, the representative of the organisation claimed it submitted letter and met with the Director General, United Nations Office at Geneva on how the war could be curbed he said, noting that the global economic progress is faltering.

    Read Also: World Bank, FG hail Makinde’s livestock production initiative

    “The uncertainty caused by COVID-19 ,Russia invasion of Ukraine ,dramatic shifts in international trade and political upheaval have left many disillusioned and triggered social tension ,worsened inequality acros the world  and a more urgent need to foster cooperation is urgently needed.

    Aduwo said regardless the global  economy situation  in Nigeria, all hands must be on deck to resolve the crisis and the major issues. 

    The government must tackle corruption and end stealing with impunity among government officials which include elected officials and top civil servants, he stated.

  • Ashafa commends Mezovest for empowering female entrepreneurs in gas retail business

    Ashafa commends Mezovest for empowering female entrepreneurs in gas retail business

    Immediate past Managing Director of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) Senator Gbenga Ashafa has praised Mezovest for its contribution to women empowerment in the gas retail sector. 

    He spole event at the graduation of 50 women trained and empowered as entrepreneurs in the gas retail business through a partnership between Mezovest and APEX in Baba, Lagos. 

     Ashafa commended Mezovest for its commitment to fostering economic empowerment and gender equality. 

    He highlighted the importance of initiatives like this in bridging the gender gap in entrepreneurship and promoting economic growth.

    “Mezovest’s collaboration with APEX to train and empower women entrepreneurs in the gas retail business is commendable,” said Senator Ashafa. 

    “By providing these women with the necessary skills and resources, Mezovest is not only empowering them but also contributing to the overall development of our society,” the former Lagos East Senator said. 

    Read Also: Ashafa: FHA has sufficient assets to secure loans

    The graduation ceremony celebrated the achievements of the 50 women who underwent rigorous training in gas retail business management, customer service, and financial literacy. 

    Through Mezovest’s support and mentorship, these women are now equipped to establish and manage their own gas retail businesses, thus creating economic opportunities for themselves and their communities.

    Ashafa urged other organisations to emulate Mezovest’s example and invest in initiatives that empower women and promote inclusive economic growth.

  • Axxela gets international rating medal

    Axxela gets international rating medal

    Axxela Limited, a sub-Saharan African gas and power company, has achieved a Gold Medal in the 2024 EcoVadis Sustainability Rating.

    This rating underscores Axxela’s steadfast commitment to sustainability, corporate social responsibility, and ethical business practices.

    Ranked in the top five among companies evaluated by EcoVadis over the past twelve months, Axxela achieved an impressive 97 percentile rank, showcasing its dedication to continuous progress in sustainability and ESG practices.

    This accolade marks a significant advancement from its previous silver medal rating, highlighting the company’s increasing efforts in this domain.

    The CEO of Axxela, Bolaji Osunsanya, stated: “Achieving a Gold Medal in our 2024 Sustainability Rating from a globally renowned authority on business sustainability ratings, serves as a superior validation of Axxela’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship. Over the past years, we have worked tirelessly to ensure that we incorporate and embrace the principles of sustainability across our business operations for the benefit of our customers, employees, partners, and investors.

    Read Also: Axxela: Natural gas provides cost-effective energy

    “This outcome is both an encouragement and motivation for us to persistently improve and do more. Osunsanya reiterated Axxela’s pledge to promote sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, aligning with the UN SDG 9 Agenda on Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

    He stated: “This achievement propels us to redouble our efforts towards a cleaner, more sustainable future while driving industrial growth in Nigeria and across West Africa.”

    The General Counsel and Company Secretary, Axxela, Tuoyo Ejueyitchie, said, this recognition is a testament to Axxela’s excellence and continued improvement in the area of Sustainability.

    “It is a true definition of team effort and general commitment to developing and adhering to processes and procedures that demonstrate our company’s dedication to maintaining world-class Sustainability/ESG standards.”

    To commemorate this accomplishment, EcoVadis will be planting a tree on behalf of Axxela through its partnership with One Tree Planted, a non-profit organisation focused on global reforestation.

    Axxela Limited (“Axxela”) is the pioneer private sector developer of natural gas solutions and captive power generation in Nigeria; a company co-owned by Helios Investment Partners LLP and Sojitz Corporation. Axxela is a designated natural gas shipper on the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP), and a member of the West African Power Pool (WAPP), delivering natural gas to about 200 industrial and commercial customers via a vast network of natural gas infrastructure.

    With over 360km of natural gas pipeline infrastructure built, Axxela provides unique energy solutions primarily through its subsidiaries: Gaslink Nigeria Limited, Gas Network Services Limited, Central Horizon Gas Company Limited, and Transit Gas Nigeria Limited.

  • Prime Teknologies UK to build utility-scale solar power plant in Nigeria

    Prime Teknologies UK to build utility-scale solar power plant in Nigeria

    Prime Teknologies, a disruptive technology company in the UK and provider of renewable (photovoltaic) energy solutions, is poised to aid  the power generation sector in Nigeria with the establishment of a utility-scale Solar Power Plant in Nigeria.

    The 25 Megawatt photovoltaic (PV) power generating plant represents a significant step towards addressing the energy needs of Nigeria and promoting renewable energy and sustainable development.

    Collaborating with their global partner experts in renewable energy deployment, Prime Teknologies UK is leveraging its expertise to implement clean energy solutions across Nigeria  where communities have hybrid electricity options, with local Solar plants supporting the national grid in generating, transmitting and distributing uninterrupted power.

    With over 100 gigawatts of power generated across 30+ countries worldwide, including the UK, Spain, South America, India, China, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Uganda, Zambia, Kenya, Ghana, and many others, Prime Teknologies and partners are committed to driving positive change through various renewable energy initiatives.

    Heading the project is Charles Scott-Emuakpor, CEO of Prime Teknologies UK.

    Under his leadership, Prime Teknologies UK has assembled a team of seasoned professionals with extensive experience in the Nigerian power sector.

    Engr. Francis Okosobo-Ibe, a Consulting Power Systems Engineer and former business leader at multiple districts of the NEPA/PHCN (Rtd), is among the key team members driving the success of the Solar Power Plant project.

    “We are building the largest utility scale power plant in Nigeria so far” Charles Scott-Emuakpor said.

     “One of the key drivers behind our initiative is the pressing need to address Nigeria’s energy challenges with sustainable solutions, and the Prime Solar Power Plant represents a significant milestone in our commitment to promoting clean, reliable energy sources in Nigeria and beyond.

    “By incorporating innovative technologies like Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) doing the energy storing at capacity for off-peak distribution alongside PV modules doing the energy harvesting, we aim to maximize the efficiency and reliability of this Renewable Power Plant and the many others to come,” he added.

    “This approach underscores our dedication to providing clean, affordable and sustainable electricity to Nigerian homes and businesses, while also contributing to the nation’s sustainable development goals.”

    Read Also: Tinubu approves appointment of FCTA Head of Service, Perm Sec, others

    Uche Ndubuokwu, Operations Lead for the project, emphasised the importance of renewable energy in addressing electricity scarcity in Nigeria.

    “Our goal is to provide electricity from a renewable source to thousands of Nigerians, thereby easing the strain on the national grid and fostering a more sustainable energy future for the country,”  Ndubuokwu states.

    In addition to collaborating with foreign partners, Prime Teknologies is working closely with Federal and State governments on the project.

    The Federal Ministry of Power and the  Innovation, Science & Technology Ministry (FMIST) have shown keen interest in supporting renewable energy initiatives, further underscoring the importance of this project.

    Prime Tek is also in communication with the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), on due diligence.

    Beyond its economic benefits, Prime Tek’s Solar Power Plant will have a significant social impact, creating over 2000 local jobs during the construction phase and providing ongoing employment opportunities in operations and maintenance.

    This commitment to local empowerment aligns with the company’s  vision of fostering sustainable development and addressing climate change challenges.

    As Prime Teknologies UK prepares to embark on this transformative journey, the company remains dedicated to its mission of driving positive change through innovations.

    By leveraging innovative technologies and fostering strategic partnerships, Prime Teknologies UK is poised to make a lasting impact on Nigeria’s energy sector and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.

  • Nigeria’s oil and gas future depends on collaboration, investment, says expert

    Nigeria’s oil and gas future depends on collaboration, investment, says expert

    James Arukhe, an expert in the oil and gas industry, has emphasised the necessity for Nigeria to collaborate with the private sector and strategically invest to fulfill its energy commitments both domestically and globally.

    In an interview with The Nation, Arukhe highlighted how important it is for the public and private sectors to collaborate to benefit both parties.

    Arukhe underscored the need for the government’s backing for private investment, saying that President Bola Tinubu’s background in the oil and gas sector would be beneficial to the sector.

    He said: “Meeting these obligations requires investments in infrastructure, technology, security, environmental sustainability, and human capital. Policy reforms are also crucial.

    “Increased revenue for Nigeria can be achieved through mutual respect and collaboration, addressing both immediate operational efficiency challenges and long-term oil sector sustainability.”

    Read Also: Nigerian universities need to learn from ABUAD, says Obasanjo

    Arukhe suggested that Nigeria could boost its oil production capacities by implementing Brazil’s Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) model and changing its policies to encourage investments in deep-water oil deposits.

    He stated: “Key strategies include streamlining regulatory processes for exploration and production licenses, offering fiscal incentives to attract private investment, and facilitating technology and expertise sharing between private firms and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

    “These measures, inspired by Brazil’s success with Petrobras and international oil companies, could significantly boost Nigeria’s oil sector.”

    He added that Nigeria can invest in more environmentally friendly technologies like carbon capture and renewable energy integration in response to environmental concerns.

    Arukhe reiterated that the least amount of ecological impact can be achieved by putting in place efficient mechanisms for managing oil spills and adhering to global environmental regulations.

    He said: “These measures will contribute to sustainable operations, balancing production efficiency with environmental protection, and align with global climate change initiatives.

    “Investments in digital oilfield technologies, enhanced oil recovery (EOR) techniques, and real-time monitoring systems are essential to optimize production processes and minimize downtime.”

  • Sahara: We lose 40 per cent of generated energy to meter bypass

    Sahara: We lose 40 per cent of generated energy to meter bypass

    Sahara Power Group, Managing Director, Kola Adesina, on Friday, February 23, bemoaned the loss of electricity to thefts, stressing it lost 40% of its power generation to a meter bypass.

    He said that the group experiences a daily loss of approximately 40 percent of generated power due to energy theft and meter bypass.

    Adesina disclosed in a presentation at the 4th Seminar for Judges organised by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) at the National Judicial Institute (NJI) complex in Abuja.

    The group also owns Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company Limited.

    He lamented that the country’s value system is impacting negatively on the power space.

    He said: “The value system is eroding everything common sensical and universal within the power space. I doubt if we will see light at the end of the tunnel if we continue with the current practice.”

    According to him, the revenue assurance from the system is not sustainable, owing to the attitude of the Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDA).

    The Sahara boss urged customers to pay their bills for the DisCo to improve on quality power delivery.

    He warned that the attitude poses a challenge to the operation if it is not addressed.

    Read Also: Hyde Energy renews sponsorship of Lagos Polo Tourney

    “The revenue assurance is not sustainable and the MDAs are involved in this. I want to hope that people pay their electricity bills.

    “Pay for our power as that is the only way we can improve on the quality of service. If we continue this way, we will have a big issue.

     He called on the judiciary to assist the energy distributor in tackling the issues.

    According to him, “We need the judiciary to help us in solving some of these problems. Judges have their cases but based on what you have heard today, I would like to indulge you to collaborate with us towards resolving the issues in the power sector.”

    He called on the judges to have a competent bench that appreciates the electricity market.

    Adesina said: “My lords, the support we are seeking is not that you give a ruling in our favour, the support that we are asking for is to have a competent bench that understands when you hear about capacity payment, availability payment, MYTO, why are the tariffs being reviewed; to understand these issues so there can be a clear, consistent and logical judicial precedent.

    “That is what we are asking for and we believe that with engagements like this, we will continue to build our capacity.”

  • Recycling firm showcases innovations, capacity building

    Recycling firm showcases innovations, capacity building

    A recycling firm, TURN Plastic Recycling Foundation, has showcased recycling innovations as part of activities to commemorate its second anniversary.

    At an event hosted at the Port Harcourt office, the recycling firm showcased a journey that redefined waste and improved the lives and livelihoods of the residents.

    The theme was “The Environment, Art, and Culture.”

    The project coordinator from United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), Ihuoma Njemanze, said the firm emerged from a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) collaboration between UNITAR, TotalEnergies E&P Nig. (TEPNG), and Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

    According to Njemanze, the company has started the Train up a Child (TUC) programme to accelerate the speed of adaptation to the UN SDGs and nationally determined contributions (NDCs), promoting waste management, and bringing about behavioural change and skill acquisition.

    Read Also: NEDC plans six mega recycling plants in Northeast

    A business partner of the firm, Uloma Airhienbuwa urged Nigerians to work together with the company to realize the goal of having no waste on the streets and strengthening local communities.

    While presenting recycling innovations, Uloma shed light on creative embracing environmental sustainability as their medium, challenging perceptions, and inspiring a new wave of environmental awareness through art.

    She clarified how artists are using environmental sustainability as a means to challenge stereotypes and ignite a fresh wave of environmental consciousness.

    The project manager, Leo Nwofa, summarized the project journey and roadmap, mentioning that the project has employed over 50 people (60% women).

    He stated that the plant has grown by 50% between 2022 and 2023 and has saved, in Q3 2023, a CO2 equivalent of planting 300 trees.

    Nwofa encouraged Nigerians to follow the hierarchy of waste management: refusing if not needed, reducing if necessary, and properly disposing of for recycling after use.

    The programme featured poets passionate about sensitizing the public on waste management, who presented creative and passionate poems about plastic waste management.