Enugu: Governor Mbah revamps 35-year moribund Nigergas Plant

Enugu: Governor Mbah revamps 35-year moribund Nigergas Plant

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has relaunched the long-abandoned Niger Gas Company Ltd in Emene, which had been non-functional for over 35 years. The company, originally established in 1962 under Michael Okpara in partnership with an Italian firm, once produced essential gases like acetylene, nitrogen, and medical oxygen but had fallen into disuse.

The revived gas plant now has the capacity to produce 100 cubic metres of oxygen and 45 cubic metres of acetylene per hour. It has already provided direct jobs for over 100 skilled and semi-skilled workers, with projections to create over 5,000 indirect jobs across supply chains, transport, distribution, and fabrication.

Governor Mbah described the project as part of his broader plan to revive state-owned moribund assets and expand Enugu’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion. He emphasized that the facility would operate under a model that retains government ownership but applies private-sector efficiency for sustainability.

The upgraded plant will supply liquid oxygen, medical oxygen, acetylene, and other gases to hospitals, manufacturers, agro-processors, and welders, reducing dependence on external suppliers, cutting production costs, and ensuring reliable medical oxygen supply for healthcare. Plans are also underway to expand production to include nitrogen, argon, carbon dioxide, and CNG stations.

Mbah highlighted that the revival of Nigergas will not only strengthen Enugu’s industrial base but also boost MSMEs, generate revenue, and drive industrial growth. He also acknowledged the contributions of the Enugu State Investment Authority, Commissioner for Trade and Investment Sam Ogbu-Nwobodo, and Ten Gas Development Ltd for making the project a success.