Investigation by the National Assembly into the multi-billion naira Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Train 7 project has suffered a serious setback as contractors refused to submit documents to aid the probe.
The NLNG Train 7 project involves the construction and operation of one additional Complete LNG Train (CT) and a Common Liquefaction Unit (CLU) with a total capacity of 7.4 mtpa.
The joint Committee on Gas of the Senate and House of Representatives conducting the investigation had to suspend the investigation till documents are made available by NLNG and SAIPEM Contracting Nig. Ltd.
Chairman of the joint committee, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, expressed disappointment that the NLNG and the contractor could boldly refuse to supply the document the committee requested.
He disclosed that the committee had requested that information be provided on the contract agreement signed between SAIPEM and NLNG, as well as any variations requested and subsequently granted on the cost of the project.
But in response to the request, the contractor said: “The disclosure of the contract agreement, as well as details of any variation request in respect of the NLNG Project is not within our sole discretion, as the contract specifically contains confidentiality provisions that forbids the disclosure of its contents and other project information to the authorities without NLNG’s express written consent.”
The NLNG however noted that it is cooperating and continuously engages with the joint committee to ensure a shared understanding among all stakeholders, aimed at resolving the issues under consideration.
