Paragraph 1: Nigeria LNG’s Train 7 Project Reaches 80% Completion
Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) has announced that its ambitious Train 7 gas project, a $10 billion undertaking located on Bonny Island in Rivers State, has achieved 80% completion. This marks significant progress from the 67% completion reported in June 2024. The Train 7 project, incorporating advanced engineering and complex liquefaction technology, represents a substantial investment in Nigeria’s energy sector and is poised to significantly increase the nation’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) production capacity. As the project enters its final construction phase, the demand for highly skilled technical manpower is intensifying, leading NLNG to collaborate with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) to bolster the local workforce.
Paragraph 2: NLNG and NCDMB Partner to Develop Skilled Workforce
Recognizing the need for a robust and skilled workforce to support the project and the broader energy sector, NLNG has partnered with the NCDMB to implement a comprehensive human capital development program. This initiative aims to equip Nigerians with the necessary technical expertise to contribute effectively to the Train 7 project and future energy endeavors. The program emphasizes hands-on training and real-world experience, ensuring that participants are well-prepared for the demands of the industry. NLNG’s General Manager for External Relations and Sustainable Development, Dr. Sophia Horsfall, emphasized the company’s dedication to nurturing Nigerian talent and creating a sustainable pool of professionals for the oil and gas sector.
Paragraph 3: Advanced Training Program for 140 Graduates
As part of the ongoing human capital development initiative, NLNG and NCDMB recently inaugurated 140 trainees for a three-month advanced program focused on the Bonny Island project. This group of graduates, having already completed a 12-month basic training program in oil and gas-related skills, will now embark on a practical phase involving Turn Around Maintenance, commissioning activities, and technical desktop assignments at NLNG’s facilities. This on-the-job training is designed to provide participants with invaluable experience and exposure to the complex operations of an LNG plant.
Paragraph 4: Multi-Phased Training Initiative and its Impact
The inauguration of these 140 trainees represents the latest phase of a broader training initiative launched in November 2024. Batch A, comprising 331 trainees, commenced training in various disciplines including facility management, engineering, ICT, health and safety, QA/QC, and welding and fabrication. Batch B, with 77 trainees, focused on specialized areas like data analytics and supply chain management. These programs collectively demonstrate NLNG’s commitment to cultivating a diverse and highly skilled workforce capable of supporting the growing demands of the energy sector. The NCDMB Executive Secretary, Felix Ogbe, lauded the program as a significant step towards building a globally competitive oil and gas workforce in Nigeria.
Paragraph 5: The Significance of Train 7 and its Projected Benefits
The Train 7 project is a cornerstone of Nigeria’s energy strategy, projected to increase NLNG’s production capacity by 35%, from 22 million tonnes per annum to 30 million tonnes per annum. This substantial increase will not only boost Nigeria’s LNG output but also contribute significantly to the nation’s economy through increased revenue and job creation. The project’s impact extends beyond just production, as it is expected to stimulate further development opportunities in the upstream sector of the LNG value chain and attract foreign direct investment.
Paragraph 6: Train 7 Project Timeline and Investment
The Train 7 project reached a pivotal milestone in December 2019 with the final investment decision by NLNG’s shareholders. Subsequently, in May 2020, the engineering, procurement, and construction contracts were awarded to the SCD JV Consortium, a partnership of Saipem, Chiyoda, and Daewoo affiliates. The official groundbreaking ceremony, presided over by former President Muhammadu Buhari, took place in June 2021 on Bonny Island, marking the commencement of construction. The project represents a substantial investment of over $10 billion, encompassing both Train 7 itself and related upstream developments, signifying a significant commitment to Nigeria’s energy future.
