In a significant move to bolster Nigeria’s energy independence, Seplat Energy Plc, in a joint venture with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), has delivered the first domestic cargo of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) from the Bonny River Terminal (BRT). The landmark shipment of 12,600 metric tons of butane marks a crucial shift for an asset that, under its previous operator, ExxonMobil, had been almost exclusively used for export.
This development is a pivotal moment for Nigeria, which despite having one of the world’s largest natural gas reserves, has historically relied on imports for more than 70 per cent of its cooking gas consumption. This dependence has made local prices vulnerable to foreign exchange fluctuations and global supply chain disruptions. Seplat’s initiative is expected to reduce this reliance, offering a more stable and affordable energy source for millions of Nigerians.
The delivery is part of Seplat’s broader strategy to expand domestic gas supply. The company is also developing two major gas processing facilities: the ANOH Gas Plant in Imo State, with a capacity of 300 million standard cubic feet per day (MMscfd) and an LPG unit producing 120 metric tons daily, and the Sapele Gas Plant in Delta State, with a 90 MMscfd capacity and a daily LPG output of 163 metric tons. Both are slated to come on stream by the fourth quarter of 2025.
Industry experts believe that Seplat’s entry into the domestic LPG market will have a positive ripple effect. By substituting imports with local production, it could help stabilize prices and create new business opportunities in the downstream distribution and retail sectors. For ordinary households, this transition offers a cleaner and safer alternative to traditional fuels like firewood and kerosene, which are still used by nearly 80 per cent of Nigerian households, according to the International Energy Agency.
The project reinforces the federal government’s “Decade of Gas” initiative, showcasing how indigenous energy companies can lead in translating the country’s vast gas potential into tangible benefits for its citizens. While challenges remain in developing the necessary infrastructure to ensure widespread distribution, this initial shipment from the BRT is a powerful demonstration of a more resilient and sustainable energy future for Nigeria.
