NNPC, Akwa Ibom, Firm sign MoU for marine logistics to strengthen offshore construction
By Gloria Akudoro, Abuja
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding together with Akwa Ibom State Government and Solutions Hub LTD to establish a fully integrated deepwater logistics shore base in the state.
The signing ceremony which took place Saturday in Uyo the state capital of Akwa Ibom was witnessed by Dr. Lami Ahmed, Board Member, NNPCL; Engr Kamoru Busari, Acting Perm Sec Petroleum Ministry; Engr Simbi Wabote, ES, NCDMB; Mr. Bala Wunti, Chief Investment Officer, NUIMS; Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem, SSG A/Ibom State Govt and other dignitaries present.
The logistics base proposed to be sited on a 40 sq kms space in Ibaka, Mbo LGA, within the already designated FTZ in Akwa Ibom State which is modeled to be an alternative to existing Logistics bases in Nigeria to offer offshore construction support to West and Central African regions respectively.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Governor Udom Emmanuel thanked NNPC Ltd and Solution Hub for their thoughtfulness in choosing to partner with Akwa Ibom State thereby making the project a reality.
He however reassured investors of the hospitality of Akwa Ibom State and solicited for more projects that open doors to employment and development opportunities for indegenes of the State.
Also speaking, the NNPC Limited Board Chairperson, Senator Margery Chuba-Okadigbo, said the Company is working with all relevant government agencies to deliver on the world class facility.
She therefore seek more partner to collaborate with the new NNPC in order to secure their right to play in Africa’s largest market by partnering with its largest energy company.
In his remark, the Group Chief Executive Officer, NNPC LTD, Mallam Mele Kolo Kyari, described the project as a game changer not just for the oil and gas industry, but for the nation’s economy.
Ably represented by the , Engr. Adokiye Tombomieye, Kyari said Ibom Solutions Hub will own 50 per cent of the company deal with NNPC owing 30 per and Akwa Ibom 20 per cent.
“Ibom Solution Hub Limited, a partnership of Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Ltd – 30 per cent, Solutions Hub Ltd – 50 per cent, and Akwa Ibom State Government– 20 per cent is a fully Integrated, real Deepwater Logistics Services base project that will offer offshore construction and logistics services to the Eastern flank of Nigeria, the West and Central African Region,” he stated.
