The Managing director of UTM Offshore Ltd, Dr. Julius Rone, owner of country’s first Floating Liquified Natural Gas (FLNG) has won the Oil and Gas Personality in the Daily Independent Newspapers Year 2023 Award. The award was conferred on him at a ceremony held at Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos at the weekend in recognition of his revolutionary contributions to the development of the oil and gas industry in Nigeria.
Describing the award as a spur to redouble his efforts, Dr. Rone reiterated his commitment towards the growth and expansion of national gas productivity. He stated that this commitment is the driving force behind the groundbreaking initiatives of his company especially the establishment of the UTM Floating Liquified Natural Gas (UTM FLNG), the first floating liquefied natural gas company in Nigeria.
He said that when completed the UTM FLNG is expected to advance the national economy by producing an annual 1.5 million tons of Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) for export, 300,000 metric tonnes for domestic market, while creating thousands of jobs and investment opportunities in Nigeria.
“I thank the Daily Independent Newspapers because this Award is a reminder and confirmation that one’s efforts and contributions towards national development are being recognised.
“This Award serves as a spur to do more in the interest of our nation and humanity and our company remains committed towards the growth and expansion of the national gas productivity in the quest to achieve the desired capacity for export as well as ensure availability and affordability for the domestic market,” Dr. Rone said.
Stating that his company has moved to the Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Installation and Commissioning (EPCIC) stage after obtaining all necessary approvals, Dr. Rone said the required international standards are being adhered at all levels of the project.
The UTM boss commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ensuring that UTM continues to receive the necessary government backing to guarantee the success of the project.
“More importantly I appreciate and commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for encouraging private investment in developing the nation’s gas resources. President Tinubu’s commitment towards the Decade of Gas policy has massively enhanced private sector participation by boosting investors’ confidence in the gas industry”, he said.
The UTM MD urged private entrepreneurs in the country to take more advantage of the policies of the current administration towards investments in critical sectors of the economy.