The consultative forum between the Anambra State Government and National Gas Expansion Programme Committee has ended in praises to the State for being the first to take steps towards embracing the use of natural gas for industrial and household uses.
The forum, held at Agulu, in Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, came on the heels of the recent launch of push to increase gas uses in Abuja, and is aimed at reviewing and establishing gas implementation plan for the State.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Mr Timipre Silva who extolled Anambra State government’s presence and logistics support to the Forum, which attracted the academia, captains of industries, as well as key players in oil and gas sector, said great economic opportunities abound for the State and residents in embracing the use of gas in running vehicles, industries and home appliances.
The Minister, who was represented by the Chairman, National Gas Expansion Programme Committee, Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim, explained that the use of gas is comparatively cheaper, safer and more ecofriendly, noting that with the drop in oil production and resultant hike in fuel pump prize, the use of gas will be a better alternative.
He explained that Engineers will be trained on installation and management of gas plants, while entrepreneurs will also be trained in techniques, skills and production of gas accessories, such as burners, cookers, stoves’, expressing hope that Anambra State will take the lead in full implementation of the programme.
In his remark, the Anambra State Commissioner for Public Utilities and Water Resources, Engineer Emeka Ezenwanne, represented by the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Willie Obiano on Public Utilities and Water Resources, Sir Victor Meju, said Anambra State is endowed with abundant gas deposits, which when harnessed, will be alternative to fuel and electricity.
He explained that the Obiano administration has continued to increase capacity for power supply, in order to increase production capacity of industries in the State.
Chairman of Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, IPMAN, Enugu Depot, Mr. Chinedu Anyaso, promised that the association will be part of partnership for the success of the programme, while a representative of a gas-powered automobile industry, Mr. Chinedu Oguegbu, said the use of gas will equally provide alternative to fuel.
Rector of Anambra State Polytechnic Mgbakwu, Dr. Mrs Nneka Mefoh, represented by the Public Relations Officer of the Institution, Mr. Sunday Okagbue, and the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Awka Capital Territory Development Authority, ACTDA, Venerable Amaechi Okwuosa, described the programme as another milestone in the history of Anambra.
The consultative forum was an offshoot of the Anambra State government’s active participation in the stakeholders’ engagement that held previously between the National Gas Expansion Programme Committee and representatives of various State governments.
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