The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Managing Director, Maikaniti Baru, stated that the NNPC and the Benue State Government (BNSG) have revived their partnership on the Ethanol project for energy sufficiency. The company will also commence hydrocarbon exploratory activities in the Benue Trough to achieve energy security, Nigeria Today reported.

The leader of the Benue State delegation, Terwase Orbunde, assured complete support and cooperation from the State Government and the host communities, stressing that the State Government fully identifies itself with the energy policy of the Federal Government of Nigeria, according to The Guardian.

Baru noted that ethanol when blended with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), otherwise known as petrol, ensures excellent performance of vehicles, stressing that energy sufficiency and proficiency were part of NNPC’s objectives.

NNPC initiated a renewable energy programme in August 2005 with the primary aim of linking the agricultural sector with the Oil and Gas Industry. It is also aimed at gradually reducing the nation’s dependence on imported gasoline.