By Solomon OKPO
Esit Eket witnessed a historic milestone on Thursday as Nsik Oil and Gas Company Ltd, a leading indigenous energy firm, commenced the construction of its 10MMSCF Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Mother Station in Uquo Isi Edoho.
The groundbreaking ceremony drew widespread acclaim, with stakeholders hailing the project as a game-changer for economic growth, employment creation, and the transition to cleaner, more affordable energy solutions across Akwa Ibom and beyond.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, lauded the initiative as a vital component of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for the gas sector. He highlighted the federal government’s commitment to further investing N400 billion in the sector within two months, encouraging more Akwa Ibom investors to leverage emerging opportunities in the industry.
“This project will not only lower gas prices but also establish Esit Eket as an industrial hub, reducing dependence on premium motor spirit (PMS) while ensuring energy sustainability for industries, transport, and households,” Ekpo emphasized.
Chairman/CEO of Nsik Oil and Gas, Mr. Nsikan Johnny, described the project as a defining moment in Nigeria’s energy landscape. He expressed gratitude to the federal and state governments, regulatory bodies, and host communities for their support, assuring that the facility would cater to the energy needs of Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Delta, Cross River, and Abia States.
Mr. Mkposong Asuquo, the lead consultant, provided an overview of the facility, stating that it would feature four reciprocating compressors to ensure efficient gas compression and distribution. He also confirmed that all necessary regulatory approvals, including the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and License to Construct, had been secured.
Local leaders and dignitaries, including the Council Chairman of Esit Eket, Hon. Inemesit Ikott, Senator Effiong Bob, legal luminary Emmanuel Enoidem (SAN), and Dr. Eunice Thomas, commended Nsik Oil and Gas for its bold step in transforming the energy sector. Calls were also made for the company to invest in training local youths in CNG technology and expand its reach through daughter stations.
Traditional leaders, represented by Clan Head Chief Nsuduok Etudo Ikot, assured their full support for the project, emphasizing its potential to drive economic transformation in Esit Eket.
The event brought together key stakeholders, including top government officials, industry leaders, and representatives from the financial sector, signaling a major step forward for Nigeria’s quest for energy diversification and economic sustainability.
