Ekpo flagged off the hub on Tuesday in Yola, Adamawa state, according to a statement on Tuesday by Louis Mbah, his spokesperson.

The LCNG is a facility that converts liquefied natural gas (LNG) into compressed natural gas (CNG) for distribution and use, particularly in transportation.

The minister, speaking at the event, described Greenville LNG’s project as a powerful testament to the potential of public-private collaboration in advancing the federal government’s ‘Decade of Gas’ agenda.

“The strategic location of this facility in the North-East also carries deep significance. For far too long, this region has faced infrastructural challenges that have limited its full economic potential,” Ekpo said.

“This facility in Yola marks a significant turning point. It is a beacon of hope and opportunity, not only for Adamawa State but for the entire region.

“It demonstrates that the benefits of Nigeria’s vast natural gas resources can and must reach every corner of our country.”

The minister said President Bola Tinubu has prioritised leveraging Nigeria’s gas resources to drive economic transformation, industrialisation, and social progress.

Ekpo said the LCNG model is a perfect example of such innovation.

“It creates an integrated solution for powering vehicles and industrial equipment with both LNG and CNG, offering cleaner, cheaper alternatives to diesel and petrol,” he said.

“This transformative project highlights the Federal Government’s unrelenting efforts to drive economic growth through gas adoption, building on the immense promise of natural gas as a cornerstone for national energy security.

“By leveraging advanced technology and innovative models like this LCNG facility, we are setting a new benchmark for energy accessibility and sustainability.

“This LCNG facility is not only delivering energy but also delivering hope, creating jobs, enabling businesses, and fostering peace through inclusive development.”

Ekpo urged other investors and gas developers to support the LCNG project, emphasising the vast opportunities yet to be explored and the numerous underserved communities in need.

On his part, Ahmadu Fintiri, Adamawa state governor, represented by his deputy, Kaletapwa Farauta, commended the federal government for facilitating the investment.

He said the investment aligns with the vision of the state government for cleaner and affordable energy sources.

“We will need more of the federal government’s intervention, and we will do our best to ensure that the project succeeds,” he said.

Also speaking, Eddy Van Ben Broeke, chairman of Greenville, said the company is committing over $1 billion in investments in the country.

He added that similar projects will be replicated in other states, calling on the federal and state governments for support to bring them to fruition.