The leadership of the Shipping division at Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) has emphasized that environmental protection and the reduction of gas emissions are the primary reasons for utilizing gas as fuel for its vessels.
During a presentation at the Association of Maritime
Journalists of Nigeria (AMJON), Mr. Ahmed Abdulkadir, Managing Director of NLNG
Shipping Management Limited (NSML), highlighted that the commitment to
environmental preservation is a significant factor in the decision to power
NLNG vessels with gas.
He noted that the company complies with the regulations set
forth by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Abdulkadir further
stated that there has been considerable progress towards achieving
environmental sustainability and operational efficiency.
He remarked, “The industry is transitioning from what is
considered dirty fuel to cleaner alternatives like gas. Our vessels are
designed to operate on gas due to its cleaner and more efficient nature.
Additionally, the cost of doing business is a factor; both
the EU and IMO are advocating for cleaner and more sustainable shipping
practices. Consequently, the expenses associated with using dirtier fuels are
now higher than those for cleaner fuels.
We are committed to meeting these standards and enhancing
the efficiency of our vessels in the future.
The choice between gas and oil depends on market prices;
when oil exceeds $100 per barrel, we opt for gas, and vice versa.
However, due to environmental regulations, gas is favored
for its lower carbon emissions. With Europe imposing penalties for carbon
emissions, we must exercise caution.
Currently, all our vessels operate exclusively on gas,
resorting to oil only in emergencies or when gas supplies are depleted, though
we consistently maintain a supply of gas.”