The Anambra state government says it is collaborating with the Shell Energy Nigeria to introduce gas-powered energy solutions aimed at ensuring steady power supply and driving industrialisation in the state.
Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu made the disclosure during the Anambra Energy Stakeholders Forum held in Awka on Thursday for industrialists and managing directors of oil firms operating in the state.
The forum was organised to sensitise stakeholders on the need to shift from diesel to gas as a more reliable and cost-effective alternative to electricity for industrial operations.
In a keynote address, the SSG said the plan to adopt gas as a major energy source began about two years ago.
Chukwulobelu, who spoke on the theme, “Industrialisation in Anambra: Realities, Challenges and Opportunities,” said the forum marked a significant step by the state government toward actualising the vision.
According to him, the initiative aligns with the policy thrust of Gov Chukwuma Soludo’s administration to transform the state from a consumer economy to a production-driven one.
He noted that Anambra possessed the potential and enabling environment needed for the policy to succeed and benefit residents and investors.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mrs Chiamaka Nnake, said the state government had already started laying the groundwork for industrial growth through investments in infrastructure.
Nnake said the administration had focused on building roads and modern cities that would enable investors to live, conduct business and thrive in the state.
She added that the transition from diesel to gas would help investors reduce operating costs and enhance productivity, thereby supporting the state’s economic development.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of Shell Energy Nigeria, Mr Ralph Gbobo, said the company had developed strategies to help industrialists transition from diesel to gas.
Gbobo said the initiative would support the next phase of industrial growth in the state.
In his views, Mr Brian Murivki, Managing Director of Shell Energy, Ghana and Head of New Business, Shell Energy Nigeria, noted that reliable and affordable natural gas would lower operating costs and strengthen competitiveness for industries.
He added that the shift to gas would also reduce exposure to volatile fuel prices, making energy supply more stable and cost-effective for businesses.
According to him, the company had successfully implemented similar initiatives in other states across Nigeria.
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