Lara Adejoro
The Federal Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Global Gases Group, a global leader in gases for industrial and medical applications, to establish gas plants to produce liquefied medical oxygen in Nigeria.
This was disclosed by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Pate on his X handle on Friday.
He described the partnership as a game-changer for Nigeria and that it aligns with the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative.
The World Health Organisation defined oxygen as an essential medicine for healthcare professionals to treat respiratory illnesses like COVID-19 and pneumonia.
It stated, “Oxygen is also essential for surgery and trauma. Vulnerable groups like the elderly, pregnant women, and newborns need oxygen on a regular basis,” WHO noted.
The UN agency, however, said Oxygen systems need regular power supplies and maintenance to function adequately.
Pate on his X, tweeted, “We are excited to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Global Gases Group, led by Mr. Deepak Mehta, to establish gas plants for the production of liquefied medical oxygen in Nigeria. This collaboration aims to ensure a steady and reliable supply of high-quality medical oxygen across the country.
“This partnership is a game changer for Nigeria and the subregion and directly aligns with the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (#NHSRII) and the President’s @officialABAT @NigeriaGov Executive Order to unlock the healthcare value chain.
“The planned facilities, each capable of producing 100 tons per day, will be strategically located in three urban clusters located in the North and South of Nigeria in the first phase. This will ensure that medical oxygen is accessible to a broader population, meeting both current and future demands.
“The MoU outlines several key commitments from both parties. Global Gases Group will complete feasibility studies and business case development, invest in technology, gas storage, and distribution infrastructure, and provide necessary training and development for the project.”
The minister explained that by utilising cryogenic air separation technology, the plants will offer a sustainable, affordable, accessible, and scalable solution for medical-grade oxygen production.
He added, “This technology provides higher purity levels (>99.5 per cent) and reliability compared to traditional methods.
“The project will also lay the groundwork for a more resilient and responsive healthcare system capable of withstanding future challenges such as pandemics. Importantly, it will contribute to local skill development and job creation.
“Reflecting on the #Covid_19 pandemic, many Nigerians and @CEDEAO_ECOWAS citizens suffered due to severe oxygen shortages.
” We extend our heartfelt thanks to the leadership of Global Gases and Dr. Abdul Mukhtar @Dr_AbduMukhtar of the Presidential Value Chain Initiative (@PVAC_NG) for their pivotal roles in making this partnership a reality.”
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