Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, has restated the importance of investment in the gas sector, pointing out that it is the key to driving industrialization and job creation in Nigeria.
Ekpo stated this at the recent groundbreaking ceremony of the Windek Energy Limited’s 20,000 Metric Tonnes (MT) Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) depot project at Atabrikang, Aquaha in Ibeno Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State.
According to a statement by the Minister’s Spokesman, Louis Ibah, Ekpo lauded the vision and commitments of Windek Energy Limited in Nigeria’s journey towards energy security and economic prosperity.
The statement also quoted the Minister as saying the project would boost ongoing efforts in ensuring affordable supply of LPG, commonly known as cooking gas, to Nigerians.
“This project marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards energy security and economic prosperity. It will enhance access to clean and affordable cooking fuel,” the Minister said.
He thanked the Akwa Ibom State government for providing the enabling environment for investments to thrive.
The Minister underscored the fact that the establishment of the LPG depot was a testament to the fruitful collaboration between the public and private sectors in the state.
He said the LPG depot project holds immense promises, not only for Akwa Ibom people, but for the entire nation.
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, represented by the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, in his speech, thanked the Minister for facilitating the establishment of the gas plant in the state.
Eno assured the Minister and the management of Windek Energy Limited of the security of contractors and staff, as well as the support and collaboration of the host community in bringing the project to fruition.
Also speaking, the MD/CEO, Windek Energy Limited, Mrs. Nosa Okunbor, said the project holds the prospect of stimulating economic growth, fostering innovation, and facilitating the emergence of new industries and value chains within Akwa Ibom State.
She said: “This project is not just about enhancing energy infrastructure, but about enhancing life such that our mothers will cook without hazards to their health.”