NNPCL-Heirs Energies JV Doubles Gas Supply, Boosting Power Generation Across Eastern Nigeria

Nigeria’s domestic gas supply and electricity generation have received a major boost following a landmark development by the NNPCL/Heirs Energies OML 17 Joint Venture (JV). The collaboration achieved a pioneering rigless recompletion of a key non-associated gas well, effectively doubling gas production to a peak of 135 million standard cubic feet per day (MMscf/d). This milestone is set to strengthen the country’s energy security and support national development.

The increase in gas output is already transforming power generation along Nigeria’s eastern corridor. Transcorp Plc’s TransAfam Power, one of the region’s major plants, has quadrupled its capacity, rising from an average of 50 megawatts to more than 180 megawatts, with occasional peaks of 200 megawatts. Other plants, including First Independent Power Limited (FIPL) and Geometric Power, have also reported more stable operations and enhanced electricity supply.

Collectively, the power plants supplied by the JV now generate over 350 megawatts, up from roughly 100 megawatts previously. This surge in electricity production is powering hundreds of thousands of homes and businesses, reducing blackouts, and improving critical services such as hospitals, schools, factories, and SMEs. Experts note that the development represents a significant step toward reliable and sustainable energy access in the region.

The breakthrough has received high-level recognition from the government. In a letter to Heirs Energies’ CEO Osa Igiehon, Special Adviser to the President on Energy, Olu Verheijen, commended the achievement and assured continued federal support. “Please be assured of continued support as you expand your operation across the energy sector, unlocking additional oil and gas resources to power homes, industries and commercial activities nationwide,” she wrote.

NNPCL executives also praised the initiative. Udy Ntia, Executive Vice President of Upstream at NNPC Ltd., highlighted the JV’s role in unlocking Nigeria’s gas potential, while Seyi Omotowa, Chief Upstream Investment Officer at NUIMS, emphasized Heirs Energies’ commitment to innovation-driven growth. Officials describe the accomplishment as proof of the company’s strengthened capacity to rejuvenate brownfield assets, expand domestic supply, and drive economic development across Nigeria.

source: The guardian