By Kingsley Adegboye

Standard Chartered has acted as Financial Adviser, Global Coordinator, Lead Arranger and Bookrunner for the US$1.1 billion financing supporting the IMA Gas Development Project, a joint venture between TotalEnergies and Amni International.

The landmark transaction reinforces the Bank’s cross-border CIB strategy and commitment to financing critical infrastructure in Nigeria and Africa.

The signing of the Final Investment Decision (FID), marks a significant milestone for the sponsors and Nigeria’s energy sector. The project is expected to deliver 350 mmscf/d of dry gas to Nigeria LNG (NLNG), with first gas expected in 2028.

The US$1.1 billion multi-tranche financing is underpinned by an innovative receivables sale

structure tied to a 15-year gas sales agreement with Nigeria LNG Limited and supported by a bespoke security package built to ring-fence the gas assets.

The transaction comes as fiscal incentives and regulatory reforms under Nigeria’s Presidential

Executive Orders support greater transparency and an improved investment environment for the energy sector. By helping mobilise financing for strategic infrastructure, the transaction demonstrates the role that international capital in collaboration with significant contribution from domestic banks can play in advancing Nigeria’s development priorities.

Standard Chartered’s role reflects the strategic focus of its Corporate & Investment Banking (CIB), business: connecting corporate and institutional clients to growth opportunities and capital through a distinctive cross-border network spanning Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

The Bank combines global capabilities with deep local expertise across financing, advisory, global markets and transaction banking, with a focus on helping clients navigate complex growth markets and mobilise capital for priority sectors, including energy and infrastructure.

Speaking on the transaction, Dalu Ajene, CEO & Head of Coverage, Africa, Standard Chartered Bank, said: “The IMA Gas Development Project demonstrates the opportunity to bring together international capital, deep local market expertise, and long-term partnerships to support infrastructure that is important to Nigeria’s growth. Our cross-border CIB strategy is centered on structuring innovative transactions that connect our clients to capital and opportunities across SCB’s network, while deploying our capabilities where we can make a distinctive impact. We are pleased to support TotalEnergies and Amni International on this landmark transaction and to contribute to investment in Nigeria’s energy sector and the wider African growth story.”

At the signing ceremony in Abuja, Sola Bakare, Head of Coverage, Standard Chartered Nigeria, highlighted the significance of the transaction, stating that ‘‘The IMA Project is a demonstration of what can be achieved when we have enabling reforms and innovative financing. We are proud to have partnered with TotalEnergies and Amni International to deliver the $1.1b financing that unlocks this strategic investment. This milestone reinforces

Stanchart’s depth of expertise in the energy sector and our ability to structure and arrange complex, high-impact projects. Importantly, it strengthens Nigeria’s energy security, boosts investor confidence, and supports the nation’s long-term economic growth ambitions.’’

Standard Chartered remains committed to partnering with the sponsors to translate this landmark investment into long-term value for Nigeria’s energy sector as the IMA Gas Development Project progresses toward first gas in 2028.