NLNG Targets Improved Fuel Efficiency, Costs With New 522,000 Cubic Meters Vessels

The Nigeria LNG (NLNG) is moving to expand its shipping capacity with three new LNG carriers ordered from China’s Hudong‑Zhongua Shipbuilding Group and China Shipbuilding Trading , as part of a fleet-modernisation drive to support its growing export volumes and cut operating costs.

The gas company said that Bonny Gas Transport Limited (BGT), it’s wholly owned subsidiary, signed contracts with the Chinese firm to build three new liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers totalling 522,000 cubic metres of capacity.

Each vessel will have a cargo capacity of 174,000 cubic metres and be fitted with advanced X‑DF propulsion technology designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions compared with older ships.

NLNG said the vessels were due for delivery in 2029, adding that they would be chartered to NLNG and managed by NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited (NSML).

The company said the new builds are expected to cut fuel consumption per voyage and lower bunker bills, which would improve NLNG’s operating margins amid volatile global energy prices.

NLNG said the vessels would also reduce greenhouse gas and pollutant emissions and help the firm meet tightening global and EU emissions standards, maintaining its OGMP 2.0 Level 5 rating.

“The new vessels will further strengthen NLNG’s ability to deliver cleaner energy to the world and support the company’s commitment to sustainability and operational excellence,” the company stated on Monday.

The company added that compliance with these rules would reduce the risk of market access restrictions and help sustain its appeal to ESG‑focused buyers and financiers, which could translate into more favourable contract terms and cheaper capital.

NLNG said operational benefits would include lower maintenance requirements and fewer mechanical downtimes, improving schedule reliability and protecting cargo delivery timetables that support export revenue and government royalties.

The firm also said NSML’s management role would support local maritime employment and technical services tied to vessel operation and regulatory compliance.

BGT described the contract as a key step in its fleet renewal programme, saying it aligned NLNG’s shipping assets with industry expectations for cleaner, more efficient transport and would strengthen the company’s cost position and competitive standing in global LNG markets.