Brass Gas hype grows as Niger Delta jobs lag
Nigeria’s gas minister has pledged continued federal backing for the Brass industrial complex as part of a broader strategy to leverage natural gas for manufacturing growth. Dr. Ekperikpe Ekpo outlined government priorities during a two-day workshop in Abuja, describing how the methanol facility, processing operation, and free zone will anchor an energy hub in Bayelsa State.
The petroleum ministry will facilitate policies and coordinate regulations to support financing agreements and infrastructure connections, Ekpo told workshop participants. He urged attendees to establish clear accountability measures and develop a detailed implementation plan leading to full funding approval. The minister highlighted expected benefits for the Niger Delta communities through employment generation and public works improvements.
Bayelsa’s trade commissioner, Dr. Ebieri Jones, confirmed the state administration will maintain conditions favorable to investors. Chief Ben Okoye, who leads Brass Fertilizer and Petrochemical Company, said the plants will produce thousands of jobs while enabling skills development across the region. Major partners confirmed their commitment at the gathering, which brought together representatives from the national oil corporation, Renaissance Joint Venture, Afreximbank, product buyer Trafigura, and construction firm China Road and Bridge Corporation.
