..As Nigeria Constructs the largest and most comprehensive Green Hydrogen, Green Ammonia, and Green Methanol factory in Sub-Saharan Africa.
The Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to sustainable energy with his visit to the Project Green site in Akwa Ibom State. This landmark event marked the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the construction of the largest and most comprehensive Green Hydrogen, Green Ammonia, and Green Methanol factory in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Project Green, spearheaded by Alternative Petroleum & Power Limited (APPL), aims to position Nigeria as a leading supplier of clean e-fuels, including e-methanol and green ammonia. With this initiative, Nigeria is set to revolutionize the energy landscape by producing environmentally sustainable methanol and ammonia, thereby reducing carbon emissions and fostering economic growth.
ECOnnect Energy, a key partner in the project, will leverage its jettyless terminal technology to facilitate the marine-based export of 520,000 metric tonnes per annum of renewable (blue and green) methanol and 1,120,000 metric tonnes per annum of green ammonia. Additionally, Norwegian expertise in electrolysers and carbon capture will be integrated into the project, ensuring its cutting-edge technological advancement.
The first phase of the project will utilize local renewable hydropower and natural gas to produce blue and green methanol. A 484 MWe combined cycle power plant with advanced post-combustion CO2 capture will drive the production of e-methanol. Subsequent phases will focus on scaling up green ammonia production, solidifying Nigeria’s position as a key player in Africa’s green energy transition.
Idara Ekpo, Chief Visionary Officer at APPL, expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, "ECOnnect provides low-impact technology that is the first of its kind. Their jettyless solution not only complements our environmental goals but also aligns perfectly with our project objectives, ensuring a short lead time and adding immense value to Project Green."
Similarly, ECOnnect’s CEO, Morten A. Christophersen, lauded the initiative, saying, "We are very excited to be part of this project. Our focus remains steadfast on delivering innovative, sustainable energy solutions and contributing to the socio-economic growth of the region."
Chief Uche Nnaji’s visit to the Project Green site underscores his dedication to innovation and technological advancement in Nigeria. Under his leadership, the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology has championed multiple initiatives that have positioned Nigeria at the forefront of renewable energy and sustainable industrialization.
Beyond the green energy sector, Chief Nnaji has played a pivotal role in bridging technological gaps across the country. His initiatives have been instrumental in establishing AI and innovation hubs to boost technological capacity and employment, enhancing research and development in agritech leading to improved food security, and fostering economic inclusion by securing federal appointments for underrepresented groups.
His efforts have not gone unnoticed, as stakeholders from different regions of the country continue to commend his unwavering commitment to national development. His leadership is not only reshaping the renewable energy sector but also reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a hub for scientific and technological advancement.
The establishment of the Green Hydrogen, Green Ammonia, and Green Methanol factory is a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards a greener and more self-sufficient energy future. This initiative aligns with the government’s broader Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes economic diversification, environmental sustainability, and technological innovation.
As the project progresses, it is expected to create thousands of jobs, boost Nigeria’s export potential, and provide a cleaner alternative to traditional fossil fuels. With Chief Uche Nnaji at the helm of Nigeria’s innovation drive, the country is set to reap the benefits of a transformative energy revolution that will shape its future for generations to come.
