Anambra Set to Become Major Energy Hub as NAPE Officials Highlight Vast Gas Reserves

By Our Reporter | AnambraDaily

Anambra State is strategically positioned to become one of Nigeria’s leading energy-producing states, with officials revealing that the Anambra Basin hosts one of the largest natural gas deposits in West Africa.

The Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Professor Charles Ofoegbu, made the disclosure while receiving members of the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE), Awka/Owerri Chapter, during a courtesy visit at the Jerome Udoji State Secretariat, Awka.

Speaking during the meeting, Professor Ofoegbu said the state government is laying the groundwork to unlock the enormous economic potential of its gas resources.

“Anambra is sitting on one of the largest gas deposits in West Africa. With the successful incorporation of Anambra State Petroleum and Energy Resources Limited and the continued support of NAPE, the state is well-positioned to maximize the benefits of its vast gas resources and strengthen its status as an oil-producing state,” he said.

The commissioner, who was joined by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, noted that the initiative aligns with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision of transforming Anambra into a prosperous, industrialized state driven by sustainable energy development.

Dr. Mefor emphasized that the state possesses the resources and capacity to emerge as a major player in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

“Anambra has all it takes to become a thriving oil-producing state. We look forward to stronger collaboration with NAPE to fully harness the state’s enormous energy potential for economic growth and development,” he stated.

Earlier, the Coordinator of NAPE Awka/Owerri Chapter, Dr. Ifeanyi Chinwuko, whose chapter covers the five South-East states, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to supporting Anambra’s exploration and resource development efforts.

“Our mission is to discover oil and gas resources and provide the technical expertise required for their development. We are ready to partner with Anambra State in unlocking the hidden wealth within the Anambra Basin,” Chinwuko said.

He also congratulated Professor Ofoegbu on his appointment, describing him as “a household name in geophysics” whose wealth of experience would greatly benefit the state’s petroleum sector.

The visit concluded with the presentation of commemorative gifts to Professor Ofoegbu by members of the association, symbolizing their commitment to a productive partnership with the Anambra State Government.