Axxela’s Gasnexus and NGML to build Mini-LNG plant to provide gas for stranded industries in the North
Lagos Nigeria - Gasnexus, a subsidiary of Axxela in joint venture partnership with NNPC Gas Marketing Limited (NGML), has joined NNPC and other private sector partners for the groundbreaking of its small-scale Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plant in Ajaokuta, Kogi State.
Themed From Gas to Prosperity: Catalysing Nigeria’s Economic Growth, the event, organised in collaboration with NNPC marked the groundbreaking of five mini-LNG plants in Ajaokuta. This initiative is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to drive sustainable energy development and economic transformation in Nigeria.
The Gasnexus/NGML 20MMSCFD small-scale LNG plant will be developed in phases, starting with the development of a 7.5 MMSCF/D facility that will utilise natural gas from the existing Oben-Ajaokuta pipeline to serve stranded customers in the North and other parts of the region.
Speaking at the event, Franklin Umole, Managing Director of Axxela Gas Midstream Infrastructure emphasised the significance of the project. “The demand for cleaner energy especially in underserved markets currently relying on other traditional dirty fossil fuels, presents a substantial market opportunity. With the central and strategic location of the plant in Ajaokuta, we are committed to expanding access to reliable and affordable natural gas to a wider range of customers across the northern region. Today, we lay the foundation for a future that not only fuels growth for our industries and economy but also reinforces our commitment to sustainable energy solutions. We are not just building infrastructure – we are shaping the future of energy”.
In his remarks, HRM Justin Ezeala, Managing Director of NNPC Gas Marketing Limited (NGML), said, “This groundbreaking event marks an important milestone for us, reflecting our shared goal of ensuring access to cleaner energy for Nigerians. Our partnership with Gasnexus is a crucial step toward unlocking the full potential of natural gas as a catalyst for industrial growth and energy security. By leveraging our collective strength, we won’t just deliver LNG, we will empower businesses and drive economic transformation across the region.”
Upon completion, the small-scale LNG plant will expand natural gas access to industrial and commercial customers outside of the existing pipeline network across Northern Nigeria and environs. The project will also support the Federal Government’s flare-down initiative and create new opportunities for gas commercialisation.
About Axxela
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 natural gas infrastructure network. 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.
