Reviving The Pulse Of Enugu: The Transformative Journey of Niger Gas Company Limited Under Governor Peter Mbah’s Leadership
Editor
In the rolling hills of Enugu State, where the echoes of coal and the whispers of gas tell the story of Nigeria’s energy evolution, a monumental transformation has taken place—the revitalisation of the Niger Gas Company Limited (NGCL). This strategic overhaul, spearheaded by Governor Peter Mbah, marks a new chapter in the state’s commitment to sustainable energy and economic renewal.
When Peter Mbah assumed office, he inherited a company that had long been overshadowed by operational inefficiencies and underfunding. Recognising the pivotal role of natural gas in Nigeria’s energy landscape, Mbah articulated a bold vision for NGCL—one that aimed not just to restore the company to its former glory, but to elevate it as a powerhouse of energy production and distribution for Enugu and beyond.
“The Niger Gas Company is not just an asset; it is a vital element of our vision for a sustainable future,” Mbah stated at the launch of the revamping initiative. “We see it as a catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and energy security in our state.”
The revamping process, initiated in early 2023, involved a multi-faceted strategy aimed at rejuvenating NGCL’s infrastructure, streamlining operations, and enhancing workforce capacity. This included significant investments in modern technology, improving pipelines and distribution systems, and establishing strategic partnerships with private firms to attract investment and expertise.
Technical teams were deployed to conduct comprehensive assessments of the company’s assets. The findings revealed critical areas of urgent intervention—aging infrastructure, outdated equipment, and a workforce that needed new skills to navigate the changing energy landscape.
In response, Governor Mbah’s administration rolled out training programmes to upskill employees and ensure they were equipped to handle modern technology. The company also engaged with local communities, emphasising the importance of good corporate governance and environmental stewardship in its operations.
The impact of NGCL’s revitalisation goes beyond the company itself. Local businesses are already feeling the ripple effects. With increased gas availability, power supply to industries has stabilised, enabling local manufacturers to operate at full capacity. This, in turn, is leading to job creation and stimulating economic activities across Enugu State.
“Before the revitalisation, we often faced power shortages that hampered our production schedules,” said Emma Ugochukwu, a local manufacturer. “Now, with consistent gas supply from NGCL, we’ve been able to expand our operations and hire more people. It’s a win-win for our community.”
Governor Mbah’s focus on local content has also reignited hope among small and medium-sized enterprises, as contracts for services and supplies have started flowing towards homegrown talent and resources, emphasising the administration’s commitment to grassroots development.
In addition to economic rejuvenation, the administration has placed a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. As the world pivots toward cleaner energy, NGCL has adopted green initiatives aimed at reducing emissions and promoting renewable energy sources.
“Our commitment to the environment is paramount,” Governor Mbah remarked. “Natural gas is a cleaner alternative to other fossil fuels, and we intend to leverage this while investing in renewable energy options like solar and wind.”
The revitalisation also considers community impacts, with NGCL engaging local stakeholders in an inclusive dialogue process to address any environmental concerns proactively. This cooperative approach has fostered a sense of ownership among residents, turning potential opposition into partnerships.
As the Niger Gas Company Limited emerges as a beacon of hope and a model for energy solutions in Nigeria, Governor Peter Mbah’s administration looks to the future. Plans are already in motion to explore further partnerships, enhance research and development, and expand the company’s footprint in the regional energy market.
“This is just the beginning,” Mbah emphasised during a recent press conference. “We are committed to making Enugu a hub for energy innovation, creating a sustainable future for our people and setting an example for others to follow.”
He maintained that Niger Gas’ revival would “guarantee access to reliable medical oxygen saves lives, on-demand industrial gases to lower operating costs, speeds turnaround and keeps workshops and factories turning”.
In the heart of Enugu, amidst the newly refurbished facilities of NGCL, the lights of possibilities shine brighter than ever before. With visionary leadership and community engagement, the story of the Niger Gas Company is one of hope, resilience, and an undeniable commitment to progress—an exciting chapter in Nigeria’s broader energy narrative.
The reactivation of Niger Gas is more than the mere resumption of operations; it is a significant step toward ensuring energy security for the state and beyond. With natural gas being a cleaner and more efficient energy option, the revival means not just energy supply, but also job creation, infrastructure development, and enhanced industrial activities. The governor’s ambitious plan includes harnessing gas for both domestic consumption and industrial use, thereby positioning Enugu as a key player in Nigeria’s energy landscape.
In his words during the unveiling of the giant gas company, Governor Mbah said, “the company has created direct employment for over one hundred skilled and semi-skilled workers, and would further create over 5,000 indirect jobs across distribution, fabrication, transport and supplies chain”.
This resurrection comes at a crucial time, with the global push towards sustainable energy sourcing. Dr Mbah’s administration aims to champion cleaner energy solutions, positioning NigerGas as the backbone of this initiative. The reactivation of the gas company aligns seamlessly with the overall strategy of the Mbah-led government to stimulate local economies and reduce dependency on traditional fuel sources.
The revival of Niger Gas is not an isolated effort; it is intrinsically linked to several other transformative projects initiated by the Mbah administration. Just days earlier, he inaugurated five new bus terminals across Enugu State, complemented by the deployment of 100 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses. This integration of gas-powered transportation is a perfect illustration of how the various developmental threads interlink, weaving together a tapestry of progress that addresses mobility and energy needs simultaneously.
The establishment of CNG as the primary fuel for these buses not only promises a reduction in emissions but also showcases an eco-friendly public transport system. This aligns with NigerGas’s forthcoming operations, which will supply the necessary fuel to power this modernised transport system. As Enugu embraces a greener public transit policy, the implications will ripple across economic, environmental, and social spheres.
Moreover, the reconstruction of the moribund Presidential Hotel adds another layer to this narrative of revitalisation,while the Sunrise Flour Industry is also on the queue to soon receive the oxygen of revival in the transformative agenda of Governor Mbah-led administration in Enugu state.
It’s then clear that in the end, every old thing ailing, shall certainly give way to the new one vibrating in good health, just as the $4.4b economy is relinquishing the GDP space for $30b.
EDITOR
Sam Udekwe is a journalist working in the News and Current Affairs department, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) Enugu. He is well trained in all genres of journalistic venture.
Mr Sam read Mass Communication, graduating all with Distinction in National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma at IMT, Enugu and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra state, as well as M.Sc Mass Communication with Second Class(Upper Division) at National Open University of Nigeria.
He is the immediate past NUJ Chairman, Enugu state.
samowailo@gmail.com
