NLNG strengthens global energy supply chain with three new LNG vessels

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

Nigeria’s liquefied natural gas shipping capacity is set for a significant boost following the award of contracts for the construction of three new Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) carriers by Bonny Gas Transport Limited, a subsidiary of Nigeria LNG Limited.

The contracts were awarded to Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding and China Shipbuilding Trading Co. Limited as part of BGT’s long-term fleet renewal and replacement programme aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, sustainability and competitiveness in the global LNG shipping market.

Under the agreement, three state-of-the-art LNG carriers will be constructed, each with a cargo carrying capacity of 174,000 cubic metres. The vessels will be equipped with advanced X-DF dual-fuel propulsion technology, a modern system designed to significantly improve fuel efficiency while reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional LNG vessel designs.

The new vessels are scheduled for delivery in 2029 and will be chartered by NLNG to support the transportation of Nigerian LNG to international markets. Operational management of the vessels will be handled by NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited, NLNG’s maritime subsidiary responsible for shipping and marine operations.

Industry observers view the investment as a strategic move to strengthen Nigeria’s position in the increasingly competitive global LNG trade, particularly as energy markets continue to demand cleaner fuels and environmentally sustainable shipping solutions.

The acquisition also aligns with growing international regulatory requirements on vessel emissions. According to BGT, the new LNG carriers will comply with emerging global and European Union environmental standards, helping NLNG maintain its high environmental performance ratings, including its Oil and Gas Methane Partnership (OGMP) 2.0 Level 5 status.

Beyond fleet expansion, the project underscores NLNG’s commitment to modernising its maritime assets and ensuring that Nigeria remains a reliable supplier of cleaner energy to customers across Europe, Asia and other key markets.

The development comes at a time when the global LNG sector is witnessing increased investment in next-generation vessels as shipping companies seek to balance operational efficiency with decarbonisation goals.

Maritime analysts say the newbuild programme will not only enhance the reliability of NLNG’s shipping operations but also strengthen the role of NSML in managing one of Africa’s most sophisticated LNG shipping fleets.

With the addition of the three advanced carriers, BGT is expected to improve fleet flexibility, optimise cargo delivery schedules and reinforce NLNG’s long-term strategy of supporting global energy security while advancing sustainability and operational excellence across its maritime operations.