By Egufe Yafugborhi

UYO – FEDERAL Government of Nige (FG) has affirmed potentials of the 10 Million Standard Cubic Feet Per Day (MMSCF/D) Nsik Oil and Gas Limited (NOGL) Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Mother Station in Isi Edoho to transform host Esit Eket Local Government Area and boost economy of Akwa Ibom State.

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Mr. Ekperikpe Ekpo, who performed the groundbreaking yesterday on behalf of President Bola Tinubu said the investment aligns with the President’s Renewed Hope Initiative at promoting cleaner, more affordable energy solutions.

The Minister hailed Nsik Oil and Gas for choosing Esit Eket as the strategic project location outside the Chief Executive Officer’s (CEO) home local government, describing the move as selflessly wise to encouraging even development across the state.

On the long-term benefits, Ekpo assured that the CNG Mother Station would also drastically lower gas prices as a viable alternative to petrol which has surged to N900 per liter.

He said, “This project will transform Esit Eket into an economic destination, attracting further investments and development. By the time it is completed, people will no longer queue to buy fuel at high prices.

“They will have access to a cheaper, cleaner energy source. Federal Government is committed to ensuring that gas remains a key driver of economic growth and energy security.”

He challenged Akwa Ibom and other entrepreneurs across the country to seize economic opportunities while urging the host community and the state to provide sustained enabling environment to ensure the project thrives, noting that such large-scale investments require strong local support.

The Chairman/CEO, Nsik Oil and Gas Limited, Mr Nsikan Johnny, expressed gratitude to the Federal Government, the Akwa Ibom State Government, and all stakeholders for their unwavering support.

“This project is not just about building a facility. It’s about creating opportunities, stimulating economic growth, and enhancing the quality of life for our people”, he said.

Johnny further highlighted the transformative impact the CNG Mother Station would have on various sectors, including transportation, industries, and domestic energy consumption.

Project Consultant, Mr. Mkposong Asuquo, said, “This investment will make a significant contribution to employment and introduce state of the art operational infrastructure to ensure the seamless and efficient compression of gas. Our goal is to provide CNG to top off-takers, corporate entities and individuals across Akwa Ibom and beyond.”

He explained that Nsik Oil and Gas 10MMSCF/D CNG Mother Station will operate with four reciprocating compressors, delivering CNG into specialized tube trailers for transportation to customers.

The facility, according to him is strategically designed to serve multiple states, including Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Delta, Cross River, and parts of Abia.

He confirmed that all conceptual designs, environmental impact assessments (EIA), and construction licenses have been secured to carefully position the project for a smooth take-off and execution.

Members of the host community who spoke through the Council Chairman, Mrs Ikemesit Ikot, pledged their supports while making case for employment opportunities to empower the locals.