By Abdulsalam Abdullah
Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG) is celebrating a remarkable milestone – 35 years of operation.
Since its inception in 1989, NLNG has become a beacon of success in Nigeria’s energy sector, defying odds and overcoming challenges to emerge as a world-class company.
In the late 1980s, Nigeria’s oil and gas industry was in its infancy. The country was struggling to find its footing in the global energy market.
It was against this backdrop that NLNG was born, with a pioneering vision to harness Nigeria’s vast natural gas resources and convert them into liquefied natural gas (LNG) for export.
The company’s early days were marked by uncertainty and skepticism.
Many doubted the viability of the project, given the country’s limited infrastructure and lack of experience in LNG production.
However, the determination and foresight of NLNG’s founders and stakeholders paved the way for the company’s success.
NLNG’s first LNG cargo was shipped in 1999, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s energy history.
The company’s initial production capacity was 2 million tons per annum (MTPA), which has since expanded to 22 MTPA, making NLNG one of the largest LNG producers in the world.
Over the years, NLNG has invested heavily in infrastructure development, including the construction of six LNG trains, a gas transmission network, and a fleet of ships.
The company has also implemented various expansion projects, including the ongoing Train 7 project, which will increase production capacity by 35 percent.
NLNG’s impact on the Nigerian economy cannot be overstated.
The company has generated over $100 billion in revenue since its inception, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP.
NLNG’s operations have also created thousands of direct and indirect jobs, stimulating economic growth and development in the Niger Delta region.
Furthermore, NLNG has played a crucial role in reducing gas flaring in Nigeria, utilising previously flared gas to produce LNG.
This has not only reduced the country’s carbon footprint but also generated valuable revenue.
Despite its successes, NLNG has faced numerous challenges over the years. The company has had to navigate through turbulent times, including price fluctuations, regulatory changes, and security concerns in the Niger Delta region.
However, NLNG’s resilience and adaptability have enabled it to overcome these challenges.
The company has implemented various strategies to mitigate risks, including diversification of its revenue streams and investment in security infrastructure.
NLNG’s commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) is evident in its various initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians.
The company has invested in numerous community development projects, including education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.
NLNG’s flagship CSR program, the Nigeria Prize for Literature, has promoted literary excellence and celebrated Nigerian writers.
The company has also supported various initiatives aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.
As NLNG celebrates its 35th anniversary, the company’s story serves as a testament to resilience, growth, and nation-building.
From its humble beginnings to its current status as a world-class LNG producer, NLNG has demonstrated that with determination and foresight, even the most ambitious dreams can become a reality.
As the company looks to the future, its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and nation-building remains unwavering. NLNG’s story is a shining example of what can be achieved when vision, hard work, and dedication come together.
Happy 35th anniversary, NLNG