The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Mr Ekperikpe Ekpo, has commended the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited and its partners for the rapid pace and completion of the mainline welding and associated works of the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) gas pipeline ahead of schedule.
The Minister made the remark during a recent inspection of Kilometre Zero of the landmark pipeline project, accompanied by the chief executive officer of the Nigerian state oil company, Mr Bashir Bayo Ojulari, Executive Vice President (Gas, Power, and New Energy) Mr Olalekan Ogunleye, and the managing director of Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited, Mr Nasir Abdulsalam.
“Completing the AKK Mainline ahead of schedule demonstrates the resilience, professionalism, and commitment of the project team,” Mr Ekpo said, describing the milestone as a clear reflection of the Federal Government’s renewed focus on energy infrastructure under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The Minister noted that the AKK Gas Pipeline is a strategic national infrastructure poised to drive economic growth across Northern States by supplying natural gas for power generation, supporting gas-based industries, and advancing Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiatives.
“This project will enhance industrialisation, create jobs, and strengthen energy security, ushering in a new era of economic opportunities for Nigerians,” he added.
Mr Ekpo concluded by urging all stakeholders to maintain momentum, noting that the AKK Pipeline’s operationalisation will catalyze industrialisation, employment, and inclusive economic growth, aligning with the Federal Government’s broader strategic vision.
Speaking at the site, Mr Ojulari linked the project to tangible national development, highlighting Nigeria’s industrial heritage while projecting a resurgence driven by gas as a transition fuel.
“The AKK Pipeline reflects our commitment to timely project delivery and its strategic importance to national industrialisation and economic security,” he stated.
The inspection tour, according to him, further reinforced the Federal Government and NNPCL’s pledge to ensure the AKK Pipeline’s timely completion, which remains critical to expanding energy access, boosting industrial growth, and supporting shared prosperity across the country.
The Minister and the NNPC management team commended the project workforce for their dedication, emphasizing the role of discipline, collaboration, and technical excellence in achieving the early completion of this landmark project.
The AKK Gas Pipeline, spanning over 614 kilometers, is designed to deliver natural gas to power plants, industries, and CNG facilities, providing a major boost to Nigeria’s energy infrastructure and positioning the country as a regional energy hub.