By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

The Federal Government has partnered with Southfield Petroleum Limited to launch a new gas processing plant in Iwherekan, Delta State. 

This initiative aims to tackle Nigeria’s long-standing gas supply deficit and decrease the nation’s heavy reliance on imported gas.

Known as the Southfield Utorogu Gas Processing Plant, the project is being developed in collaboration with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board. It is specifically designed to strengthen the domestic gas value chain for industrial and household use.

The facility is expected to process 200 million standard cubic feet of gas every day upon completion. It will produce essential energy products, including Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), condensate, and autogas, to improve local energy access.

At the groundbreaking ceremony, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, highlighted the high cost of gas infrastructure. He noted that the government is actively supporting private investors to bring gas to the domestic market.

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, stated that the plant will help transition Nigeria to a gas-based economy. He emphasized that the project would reduce gas flaring while making cooking gas more affordable for citizens.

The Delta State government and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board have both pledged their full support for the project. They cited its technical viability and potential to strengthen local capacity within the oil and gas sector.

The plant is projected to generate approximately 1,200 jobs and stimulate growth for small businesses in the host community. Local leaders have welcomed the investment, promising a peaceful environment for the project’s timely completion.