(Ecofin Agency) - The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the Benue State government with the aim of strengthening their cooperation are reviewing their partnership on a planned ethanol project in the state.This is coming after the President Muhammadu Buhari (photo), as part of efforts to ensure the energy security of the country, directed the NNPC to begin hydrocarbon exploratory activities in the Benue trough.

According to the Group Managing Director of NNPC, Maikanti Baru, the collaboration was essential as the ethanol project was aimed at producing biofuels for energy sufficiency.

He added that ethanol, when combined with petrol, guarantees excellent performance of vehicles, and energy sufficiency and proficiency are amongst the key objectives of NNPC.

Terwase Orbunde, the leader of the Benue state delegation, has said that the state government is ready to support the quick startup of the ethanol project, as it would generate jobs for Nigerians.Orbunde assured the NNPC of complete support and cooperation from the state government and the host communities, adding that the state fully ascertains itself with the energy policy of the federal government.

NNPC in August 2005, launched a renewable energy programme aimed at connecting the agricultural sector with the Oil and Gas Industry. The programme is also geared towards the gradually reduction of the country’s reliance on imported gasoline, reducing environmental pollution caused by the consumption of wholesale fossil fuel and creating a commercially feasible industry that can guarantee sustainable domestic jobs, Leadership news reports.

Anita Fatunji