The Federal Government on Thursday signed a series of investment agreements with ten companies to develop gas processing plants and other gas supply infrastructure across Nigeria.
The agreements—comprising the Joint Venture and Operating Agreement, the Joint Venture Equity Agreement, and the Joint Venture Accounts Agreement—were signed in Abuja between the Midstream and Downstream Infrastructure Fund (MDIF) and ten gas infrastructure promoters. Among the companies involved are Ant Energy Limited, Sub Sea 9 Gas, Waterdance International Concepts, and LNG Arete.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, emphasized that the deals represent a significant step toward realizing the government’s objective of maximizing the nation’s gas potential.
Ekpo stated that the agreements demonstrated not only the alignment of national goals with concrete initiatives but also the government’s strong commitment to driving economic growth, enhancing energy security, and laying a foundation for long-term prosperity.
“This Fund, and the partnerships it fosters, will pave the way for integrated gas infrastructure, bridging gaps that have long hindered progress. These advancements will not only connect regions but also create a ripple effect of opportunities across industries. From agriculture to manufacturing and even digital innovation, the impact of a robust gas sector reverberates far beyond energy,” he stated.
He also revealed that in the administration’s first year, the MDIF supported six companies within the midstream and downstream sector, contributing to greater innovation and efficiency in the processing, distribution, and use of natural gas.
Breaking down the specifics of the new projects, Executive Director of the MDIF, Mr. Oluwole Adama, said they include six gas processing plants aimed at producing marketable natural gas in liquefied or other forms to boost domestic supply. Additionally, three compressed natural gas (CNG) refueling stations will be built to encourage wider adoption of natural gas in transport and industry, alongside one bulk liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) storage facility designed to reduce supply chain bottlenecks.
In a related initiative, the Federal Government also launched “Project CNG Sprout” on the same day, which involves establishing CNG conversion and refueling infrastructure in 20 universities across Nigeria.
Speaking at the project launch in Abuja, Minister Ekpo highlighted that the goal is to offer students and university staff a more affordable mode of transportation.
The initiative, also funded by the MDIF, will provide CNG-powered buses and tricycles to facilitate campus transport.
“The MDGIF has remained a steadfast partner in the actualization of Nigeria’s Decade of Gas vision, providing catalytic funding and support to infrastructure projects that directly benefit the Nigerian people. I applaud the MDGIF for their strategic role in this initiative and for helping to deliver impact where it matters most,” he stated.
