…By Dorcas Funmi for TDPel Media. The 22nd annual Nigeria Oil and Gas (NOG) Energy Conference and Exhibition in Abuja witnessed the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) unveiling its intention to issue an Initial Public Offer (IPO) in the near future.
This significant announcement was made by the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, Mele Kyari, who highlighted the company’s adherence to Nigerian law as the driving force behind this decision.
Going Public in Accordance with Nigerian Law:
Mele Kyari emphasized that NNPC Ltd, despite being a government-owned entity, views itself as a part of the private sector, highlighting its commitment to competition.
He stated that the company, guided by the regulations of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, would soon make its shares available to the public for acquisition.
Positive Impact of Subsidy Removal and Energy Poverty:
During the conference, Kyari also discussed the removal of subsidies, asserting that it has yielded positive outcomes by freeing up capital for a sustainable energy supply.
In addressing the issue of energy poverty, NNPC Ltd prioritizes expanding access to energy for a larger population.
Kyari highlighted that over 30 percent of the population lacks access to electricity, underlining the challenges related to energy availability and affordability.
Key Drivers for Nigeria’s Energy Future:
Mele Kyari outlined the crucial factors shaping Nigeria’s energy future, which are affordability, accessibility, and sustainability.
In line with these drivers, NNPC Ltd revealed several forthcoming initiatives.
These include expanding gas infrastructure to enable the delivery of gas across West Africa and Europe, enhancing the liquefaction capacity of NLNG, and promoting the use of LPG as a cooking fuel and CNG as an alternative fuel for automobiles.
Upcoming Initiatives and Focus Areas:
NNPC Ltd’s initiatives aim to strengthen the energy sector and address key challenges. The company plans to expand gas infrastructure, fostering regional and international gas trade.
Additionally, increasing the liquefaction capacity of the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) facility will enhance its role as a major global supplier.
Promoting the use of LPG for cooking and CNG as a vehicle fuel are other areas of focus, with the objective of improving energy affordability, accessibility, and sustainability.
Conclusion:
The Nigeria Oil and Gas Conference and Exhibition, attended by industry policymakers, regulators, leaders, stakeholders, and partners, serves as a platform to discuss policy implementation, the vital energy agenda, and investment opportunities.
NNPC Ltd’s announcement of its plans for an Initial Public Offering, along with its commitment to competition and focus on addressing energy poverty, underscores its dedication to the sustainable growth and development of the Nigerian energy sector.