Nigeria’s Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) gas pipeline has passed a major hurdle, as engineers have successfully completed the part of the project that runs beneath the River Niger.

This section was one of the most difficult parts of the pipeline to build because of the size of the river and the need to avoid harming the environment. Instead of digging through the river, the team used a special underground drilling method that allowed them to pass beneath it without causing damage.

The AKK pipeline is one of Nigeria’s biggest energy projects. When finished, it will carry natural gas from the central part of the country up to Kano in the north. The goal is to supply gas to factories, power stations, and homes — especially in areas that rely heavily on firewood or diesel.

The project is more than 70% complete, according to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC). Although it was supposed to be finished by early 2025, work is still ongoing, with the government saying it is fully committed to getting it done.

The pipeline is being paid for directly by NNPC, not through loans, and is expected to create jobs, boost industries in the north, and help reduce pollution by encouraging cleaner energy use.

With the River Niger now behind them, engineers are focused on completing the final stages. Once done, the AKK pipeline could play a major role in improving Nigeria’s energy future.