A major green hydrogen project, valued at approximately $7.9 billion, is set to be developed in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, with significant support from China, reports Leadership.
Officials from China and Nigeria have finalized an agreement to implement the project within the Liberty Free Trade Zero (LFTZ) in Atabrikang, Ibeno Local Government Area. The deal was formalized in Uyo, Nigeria, with the participation of the Nigerian federal government, APPL Hydrogen Limited (AHL), and China’s LONGi Green Energy Technology.
Idara Ekpo, chief visionary officer of AHL, announced that the project aims to produce 1.2 million tonnes of green hydrogen-based methanol annually for export, alongside medical oxygen and food-grade CO2.
Uche Nnaji, Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, described the initiative as a “significant step” towards the country’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint.
Bamange Usman Jada, Managing Director of the Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone Authority, emphasized the project’s potential to “diversify Nigeria’s economy, encourage export, and help solve the issue of foreign exchange.” He further stated that it will “lead to technology transfer, create massive employment for our people, and it is environmentally friendly and sustainable.”
This development comes at a time when Africa is seeing a surge in planned hydrogen projects. However, according to a recent report by the Energy Industries Council (EIC), while about 41 hydrogen projects are scheduled for development in Africa over the next five years, none have yet reached a final investment decision (FID).
The EIC’s Africa OPEX Report highlighted challenges such as securing reliable offtake agreements, establishing a robust regulatory framework, and developing resilient infrastructure.
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