By Chinaza Osigwe
The Anambra State Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources has embarked on a mission to ensure that all petroleum operators in the state comply with regulations, starting with a thorough inspection of the Cottonwooden Gas Plant.
Commissioner Barrister Anthony Ifeanya led the ministry’s delegation, which included the Special Assistant to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Petroleum, Engineer Ikechukwu Okafor, and the Permanent Secretary, Mrs Nkiru Nwankwo.
The inspection aimed to investigate why the state government hasn’t received its due royalties from the gas plant.
During the inspection, the Administrative and Finance Manager of Cottonwooden Gas plant, Mr. Chidi Nwanya, revealed that the facility is currently operating at less than 10% of its 5 million capacity due to reduced hydrocarbon supply.
“We are currently operating below capacity due to the reduction in hydrocarbon supply from the fixed stock,” Nwanya explained. “However, we have already engaged a contractor to carry out intervention work to address the issue.”
Commissioner Ifeanya emphasized the importance of the gas plant operating at optimal capacity, stating, “The state government is keenly interested in ensuring that all petroleum and mineral resources within the state are exploited and utilized for the benefit of the people.”
He added, “We will continue to monitor the operations of Cottonwooden Gas Limited and other petroleum operators in the state to ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.”
