PANDEF Commends Tinubu Over 15-Year Gas Deal for Nigeria’s First Floating LNG

By Our Reporter..

The Pan Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving a 15-year gas supply framework to UTM Offshore Limited to develop Nigeria’s first Floating Liquefied Natural Gas, FLNG, facility.In a letter dated August 6, 2026 and addressed to the President, PANDEF National Chairman, Amb. (Dr.) Godknows Boladei Igali, said the approval is a “momentous” step toward the rapid industrialization of the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large.

PANDEF described the project, planned for offshore Akwa Ibom State, as a multi-billion-dollar investment that will significantly boost gas-based development in the South-South region.

“PANDEF considers your approval of this gas supply framework as momentous, as it will add significantly to the efforts that are at different levels to bring about the rapid industrialization of the Niger Delta,” Igali wrote.

The Forum noted that the indigenous-led project by UTM Offshore, with support from Seplat Energy and NNPC, would create jobs in the short and medium term, attract further investment, and help raise living standards in host communities.

Igali also said the FLNG plant would contribute to reducing gas flaring, which has for decades contributed to environmental pollution in the Niger Delta.“

At the social level, we are hopeful that this project and many like it which will come in the future will help to raise the standard of living of the people of the area, by stemming the tide of skyrocketing domestic and industrial gas prices,” the letter stated.

PANDEF further assured the President of its commitment to mobilize support from Niger Delta communities, particularly in Akwa Ibom, to ensure a conducive environment for the project from take-off through its lifespan.

The Forum concluded by praying for the President’s wellbeing and continued success.The approval for UTM Offshore is seen as part of the federal government’s push to monetize Nigeria’s vast gas reserves and position the country as a key player in the global LNG market through indigenous-led projects.