By Cross Udo, Abuja
The Managing Director of UTM Offshore Ltd, owner of the country’s first Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG), Dr Julius Rone, has reiterated his commitment towards the growth and expansion of the national gas productivity.
Rone, who was declared winner of Oil and Gas Personality in the Daily Independent Newspapers Year 2023 Award, described the honour as a spur to redouble his efforts,
The award which was conferred in a ceremony at Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos at the weekend, is in recognition of Rone’s revolutionary contributions to the development of the oil and gas industry in Nigeria.
Speaking after receiving the Award, he said that the commitment towards the growth and expansion of national gas production is the driving force behind the ground-breaking initiatives of his company especially the establishment of the UTM Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (UTM FLNG), the first floating liquefied natural gas company in Nigeria.
He explained that when completed the UTM FLNG is expected to advance the national economy by producing an annual 1.5 million tons of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) for export, 300,000 metric tonnes for domestic market, while creating thousands of jobs and investment opportunities in Nigeria.
The UTM Managing Director said, “I thank the Daily Independent Newspapers because this Award is a reminder and confirmation that one’s efforts and contributions towards national development are being recognized.
“This Award serves as a spur to do more in the interest of our nation and humanity and our company remains committed towards the growth and expansion of the national gas productivity in the quest to achieve the desired capacity for export as well as ensure availability and affordability for the domestic market.”
Stating that his company has moved to the Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Installation, and Commissioning (EPCIC) stage after obtaining all necessary approvals, Rone said the required international standards are being adhered to at all levels of the project.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for ensuring that UTM continues to receive the necessary government backing to guarantee the success of the project.
“More importantly I appreciate and commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for encouraging private investment in developing the nation’s gas resources. President Tinubu’s commitment towards the Decade of Gas policy has massively enhanced private sector participation by boosting investors’ confidence in the gas industry”, he said.
Rone urged private entrepreneurs in the country to take more advantage of the policies of the current administration toward
