European countries have urged Nigeria to increase its supply of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) to the European Union, as they move to cut their energy dependence on Russia.
Gatekeepers News reports that Europe is forced to diversify its energy supply following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
On Monday, Samuela Isopi, European Union (EU) ambassador to Nigeria, led a delegation that includes, Ambassador of Portugal, Luis Barros; Ambassador of Spain, Juan Sell; Ambassador of Italy, Stefano De Leo and Deputy Head of Mission (France), Olivier Chatelais, on a courtesy call on the Management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Ltd to strengthen its partnership with Nigeria in the energy sector.
Isopi said at least 40 percent of Nigeria’s LNG was exported to Europe, stressing the need for greater cooperation between Nigeria and the EU in the aspect of a possible increase in LNG supplies.
According to her, the current geopolitical situation in Europe had necessitated the strengthening of the continent’s relations with Nigeria, particularly as regards the supply of gas from Nigeria to EU countries.
“Nigeria is the fourth gas supplier to Europe. At least 40 percent of the Nigerian LNG is currently exported to Europe. We are not only major clients for Nigeria, we are also major partners in the Oil & Gas Sector because some of the companies that are working with you are from Europe. So we share the same interest and same objectives,” Isopi added.
Responding, GMD/CEO NNPC Ltd, Mele Kyari assured the European delegation that the company would continue to deepen its historical relationship with EU companies in Nigeria in order to add more value to its business, particularly towards increasing gas supply to the global market and enhancing domestic gas utilisation.
