The project
The NLNG Complex, operated by Nigeria LNG Limited, is located at Finima on Bonny Island, approximately 40 km south of Port Harcourt in Rivers State, Nigeria. Nigeria LNG Ltd currently operates a six-train gas liquefaction plant complex that produces 22 million metric tons per annum (MTPA)of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). This NLNG T7 project is a key part of both NLNG’s and Nigeria’s growth and expansion, which will deliver an increased production of 30 MTPA of LNG by developing a 7th Complete Train (CT) and a Common Liquefaction Unit, one new LNG jetty (in addition to two existing jetties), one new Condensate Stabilization Unit (CSU), utilities, flares, and associated infrastructure. New facilities will also be developed to accommodate up to 7,500 people, a new Marine Offloading Facility will be realized, and the existing Former Aggregates Berth will be upgraded. The project will be developed in compliance with the requirements of the 2010 Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act (NOGICD): part of the engineering will be developed in Lagos, and several materials — including the galvanized steel structures — will be purchased or manufactured by local companies. Piping materials, pressure vessels, cables, and other equipment and materials will be also purchased accordingly.
An extraordinary project
The project will adopt the Advanced Work Packages (AWP) methodology to streamline workflow. After the definition of the Path of Construction (POC) during the earliest stages of the project, more than 800 Engineering Work Packages (EWP) and the related Procurement and Construction Work Packages (PWP and CWP) will be defined. The necessary intelligence to break down the overall scope at the package level will be included in each engineering deliverable, including 3D modelling and other design tools, ensuring a straightforward integration between engineering, procurement, and construction. In addition, as the site is on an island, logistics need a special attention. The project since its inception faced several key challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the 2022 Russia-Ukraine conflict, that presented additional complications to be managed. Saipem’s experience creating complex projects, and its long traditions derived from a 50-year presence in Nigeria, has made the company a uniquely suitable and reliable partner to NLNG.
