The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) recently held a public hearing in Umuahia, Abia State, to discuss the construction and operation of a major gas pipeline proposed by Kwale Pipeline Limited. The hearing brought together community leaders, security agencies, government officials, and company representatives to examine the project’s details and its potential impact on the region.
Kwale Pipeline Limited is seeking licenses for three separate pipeline projects. The first involves a 24‑inch, 249‑km pipeline that would run from the Kwale Gas Processing Plant in Delta State to the SPFL Gas and Petrochemicals Free Zone in Akwa Ibom State. The second project proposes a 34‑inch, 150‑km pipeline from the Uguali facility in Imo State to the same free‑zone location. The third project is a 10‑inch, 249‑km pipeline also linking the Kwale Gas Processing Plant to the Akwa Ibom free zone.
During the hearing, Okorugo Aji, Special Assistant to Governor Alex Otti on Lands, highlighted that the initiative is expected to boost economic development in Abia State. Kwale Pipeline Limited representatives, Mrs. Nwobodo Oluchi and Mr. Anthony Asuka, assured attendees that local communities would benefit from surveillance contracts, employment opportunities, and compensation in line with Nigerian law. Eze Ordu, speaking for NMDPRA, added that the project could lead to the establishment of a gas substation in Ukwa, potentially creating hundreds of jobs for local youth.
Traditional leaders, including Eze Jackson Ibe and Eze Tony Nwagbara, praised Governor Alex Otti’s achievements and urged accelerated development of Ukwa land to exploit its rich petrogas resources. They emphasized the project’s significance for stimulating economic growth and generating employment in the region.
The public hearing represents a crucial step in the regulatory process, allowing stakeholders to provide input and ensuring that the project proceeds responsibly and sustainably. As the pipeline moves forward, it is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy and contribute to the broader development of Nigeria’s petroleum industry.
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