As MV Aktoras Begins Operations

As part of its commitment and preparation for a net zero emission future, the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas Company, NLNG,  recently added another modern vessel AKTORAS,  to its fleet.  She  arrived the the Bonny Terminal for its maiden loading of Liquefied Natural Gas, LNG, last week.

Chartered  by NLNG’s shipping subsidiary, Bonny Gas Transport Limited, BGT, Aktoras is said to be a strategic move to diversify and reduce the carbon footprint of the Company’s shipping portfolio.

Equipped with MEGA propulsion system, with advanced technologies and cutting-edge designs to reduce emissions and increase efficiency. Aktoras 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.

She arrived at the Bonny Terminal after 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.

Aktoras is managed by NLNG subsidiary, NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited, NSML, for the technical management and operation of the vessel after construction, marking a new phase in vessel management for the company.

NSML manages Bonny Gas Terminal owned by 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.

Welcoming the vessel and her crew to Bonny, Mr. Olakunle Osobu NLNG’s Deputy Managing Director, who was 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.

His words “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,” Odeh said

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NSML, Mr. Abdulkadir Ahmed, declared that Aktoras will enhance NLNG’s decarbonisation and net zero emission objectives, indicative of  NSML’s commitment to efficient and sustainable operations as well as a future-focused outlook.

“The vision behind AKTORAS is an investment in preparation for a net-zero future as NLNG  remain agile and prepared for an  industry characterised by rapid change and uncertainty”

“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,” the NSML Boss said.

Mr. Abdulkadir said the 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.

He assured that the highest standards of maintenance, safety and operational efficiency would be upheld throughout the duration of the charter as AKTORAS sails to Sines LNG Terminal, Portugal, for her first discharge operation as she begins her many voyages under the NLNG Group.