PANDEF Hails Tinubu Over 15-Year Gas Supply Approval for UTM Offshore FLNG Project

By Chukwunonso Eric, Warri.

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for granting a 15-year gas supply framework to UTM Offshore Limited, describing the approval as a major step towards industrialising the Niger Delta and strengthening Nigeria’s gas-based economy.

PANDEF National Chairman, Amb. (Dr.) Godknows Boladei Igali, conveyed the forum’s appreciation in a letter addressed to President Tinubu on August 6, 2026, following the Federal Government’s approval of the long-term gas supply arrangement to enable UTM Offshore Limited develop what PANDEF described as Nigeria’s first floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) project.

According to PANDEF, the multi-billion-dollar project, which is expected to be located offshore Akwa Ibom State, has the potential to stimulate rapid economic development across the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large.

The forum said the project represents an important milestone in the transition towards greater indigenous participation in the exploitation and development of Nigeria’s abundant natural gas resources.

PANDEF noted that the initiative, involving UTM Offshore, Seplat Energy and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), could help usher the South-South region and the country into a new era of gas-based industrial development driven significantly by indigenous companies.

The organisation also praised the promoter of the project, Dr. Julius Rone, OFR, describing the commencement of such a major investment by a relatively young Nigerian from the region as an inspiration to others to contribute to national economic development.

It further noted that the construction phase of the FLNG project could generate significant employment opportunities in the short and medium term while creating a multiplier effect for other economic activities.

Beyond its economic benefits, PANDEF expressed optimism that the project and similar future investments could contribute to improving living standards in the host communities and the wider region.

The forum also linked the development of gas infrastructure to efforts to address rising domestic and industrial gas prices, while noting that increased utilisation of natural gas could help reduce gas flaring and its associated environmental consequences in the Niger Delta.

PANDEF urged the Federal Government to continue providing the necessary support and cooperation to the project team to ensure that the investment is delivered within the stated timelines.

The forum also pledged its support for the project, assuring President Tinubu that it would work to galvanize support among Niger Delta communities, particularly in Akwa Ibom State, to create a conducive environment for the project’s take-off and successful operation throughout its lifespan.

PANDEF described the Federal Government’s approval as a development capable of creating jobs, attracting investment, promoting indigenous participation in the gas sector and accelerating the industrial transformation of the Niger Delta.

The forum reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote economic development and greater utilisation of the region’s natural resources for the benefit of both the Niger Delta and Nigeria as a whole.