The Story Behind AKTORAS, NLNG New Carrier

BY EGUONO ODJEGBA

Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG) on Sunday, disclosed that a new state-of-the-art and energy-efficient vessel, AKTORAS, chartered by it arrived at the Company’s Bonny Terminal for its maiden loading of LNG, after which it sailed off to Portugal with its maiden cargo voyage.

A statement by Sophia Horsefall, Manager, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs, the charter of the vessel by NLNG’s shipping subsidiary, Bonny Gas Transport Limited (BGT) is a strategic move to diversify and reduce the carbon footprint of the Company’s shipping portfolio.

According to Horsefall, the vessel which is equipped with MEGA propulsion system, uses advanced technologies and cutting-edge design to reduce emissions and increase efficiency.

“It is a 174,000 m3 capacity LNG carrier, with a length of 299.6 metres, breadth (moulded) of 46.40 metres and deadweight of 81,194 tons. The arrival at the Bonny Terminal followed a vessel-naming ceremony at the Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries shipyard in Mokpo, South Korea, by the vessel’s Sponsor Lady and Godmother, Mrs. Olu Verheijen, Special Adviser to the Nigerian President on Energy.

“The vessel is managed by another NLNG subsidiary, NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited (NSML), which took over the technical management and operation of the vessel after construction, marking a new phase in vessel management for the company. NSML currently manages BGT-owned LNG vessels within the NLNG fleet, providing comprehensive vessel technical management services to ensure that managed vessels are sea and cargo-worthy in line with international standards.”

The statement notes that at a brief ceremony to welcome the vessel and her crew to Bonny, Mr. Olakunle Osobu NLNG’s Deputy Managing Director, represented by Mr. Andy Odeh, General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, emphasised the significance of AKTORAS in the company’s evolution towards sustainability and a net-zero future.

Evidently, AKTORAS represents a bold step in NLNG’s dream and determination to be hold its place as a leading global player.

Odeh said “AKTORAS is not just a vessel; it is a symbol of our steady evolution, our commitment to sustainability, and our preparedness for a net-zero future. AKTORAS is simply the beginning of the positive changes to come. The significance of this investment extends far beyond the present moment.

“In an era where the global LNG industry is navigating uncertainties amidst the Energy Transition, our ability to remain agile and future-ready is paramount. AKTORAS, equipped with MEGA propulsion systems, is the most eco-friendly vessel in our fleet today, and I welcome her and her crew to Bonny Island,” he added.

In his remarks, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NSML, Mr. Abdulkadir K. Ahmed, noted that managing this new, modern vessel will support the decarbonisation and net zero emission objectives of the NLNG group, symbolising NSML’s commitment to efficient and sustainable operations as well as a future-focused outlook. He reiterated NSML’s alignment with the purpose and philosophy behind AKTORAS, which was an investment in preparation for a net-zero future.

Reinforcing the importance of the company’s capacity to swing with the future in an industry characterised by rapid changes and uncertainty, Ahmed said: “We embrace the challenges and opportunities ahead as we navigate the seas of change with agility and foresight. With AKTORAS in our fleet, we are poised to enhance our capabilities and further strengthen our position as a leading player in the maritime industry.”

He added that management of AKTORAS underscores the trust and confidence placed in NSML by BGT and the owners of the vessel, Taurus Gas Carrier Corp. (Capital Gas).

This is even as he assured that the highest standards of maintenance, safety, and operational efficiency would be upheld throughout the duration of the charter.

NLNG said that after loading her first cargo at Bonny Terminal, AKTORAS proceeded to Sines LNG Terminal, Portugal, for her first discharge operation.