From Anthony Nwachukwu, Lagos
The NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited (NSML) has signed a Vessel Management Agreement (VMA) with Temile Development Company Limited for the later to provide comprehensive vessel technical management services for its LPG Alfred Temile 10.
NSML Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Abdulkadir Ahmed, and Temile’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Alfred Temile, signed the VMA in Abuja for the new 23,000 cubic metre LPG vessel owned by Temile Development Company Limited, with the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, represented by the ministry’s Deputy Director, Cabotage and Shipping, Mrs. Ekanem Ogegere Celia, present.
Speaking at the milestone event, Ahmed emphasised that NSML will leverage its expertise and resources to ensure the safe, reliable and efficient operation of Alfred Temile 10, adding that the relationship with company started with the delivery of the first LPG vessel, LPG Alfred Temile, to NLNG in 2020.
“The relationship grew and continued with the construction, supervision and delivery of the second LPG vessel, Alfred Temile 10, to Nigeria in March 2024,” a statement from the NLNG General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, Mr. Andy Odeh, quoted Ahmed to say.
“This momentous occasion represents our shared commitment to excellence, safety and innovation in the maritime industry. It also represents the tenacious can-do-spirit of Mr. Alfred Temile, who has grown his LPG vessel fleet within a span of four years.
“The Alfed Temile 10 is a testament to our dedication to operating a modern, efficient and environmentally responsible fleet. With its cutting-edge design and technology, this vessel will set a new standard for LPG transportation in Nigeria and the West Africa.”
On his part, Temile stressed that the new vessel will play a critical role in gas transportation in Nigeria, enhancing the company’s capacity to deliver high-quality services while adhering to the highest standards of safety and environmental stewardship.
“We are confident that this partnership will set a new benchmark in the industry, and we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead,” he added.
“As we embark on this new chapter, we also anticipate further strategic investment decisions, including a third gas carrier later this year, demonstrating our commitment to deliver sustainable growth and value to our shareholders and Nigeria.”
Meanwhile, the keynote speaker, Mr. Felix Ogbe, while commending the NSML-Temile Development Company partnership, called for increased collaboration and cooperation in the maritime industry, stating that there is ample human capacity, resources and tenacity in-country to achieve great feats.
Also present at the ceremony were the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Development & Monitoring Board, Mr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, NLNG General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, Mr. Andy Odeh, and Chief Investment Officer, NNPC Gas & Power Investment Services, Dr. Salihu Jamari, among others.
