The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has expressed readiness to partner with Nigerian Liquified Natural Gas (NLNG) company towards solving Nigeria’s energy challenges.

According to the Authority, the partnership will increase gas use in cooking, transportation and power generation.

Mr Farouk Ahmed, the Chief Executive Officer of the Authority made this known in Abuja when he received the Management of the NLNG on a courtesy visit to his office.

Ahmed, according to a statement on Tuesday, commended the NLNG for its focus in prioritising domestic supply, which has had a significant impact on deepening gas consumption in the country.

The NMDPRA CEO reiterated Federal Government’s goal of deepening LPG and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) especially for Auto gas as an alternative to Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), to cushion the effect in a situation of upward spike in oil prices.

He gave assurance that the authority would put in place polices that would not stifle businesses but rather level the playing field to stimulate economic growth and job creation in the industry.

Meanwhile, Dr Philip Mshelbila, Managing Director, NLNG, said the company would continue to priotise the growing domestic LPG market and increase utilisation by supplying 100 per cent Propane and Brutane production.

Mshelbila also revealed ongoing plans of the NLNG to commence operation for the Nigerian domestic LNG market this year, in line with the government’s desire to boost local consumption.

He explained that the move was part of the NLNG’s dedication to participate in industrialising Nigeria by providing efficient energy in line with the Federal Government’s developmental initiatives and as one of the two focus areas of the company.

“The other area of focus is to remain globally competitive,” Mshelbila added.

He pledged the company’s dedication and commitment toward making Nigeria an energy-sufficient nation.