The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has reaffirmed its commitment to completing the $2.8 billion Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline, with fresh contractors brought on board to fast-track delivery.
Speaking during the 2025 AKK Business Development Forum hosted by the Gas Power & New Energy Directorate, NNPC’s Group CEO, Bayo Ojulari, described the pipeline as a transformative project that goes beyond infrastructure to drive economic growth, industrial development, and national integration.
Ojulari emphasized that welding on the second 320km segment of the pipeline has been completed, noting that the project is central to Nigeria’s energy transition strategy. He added that the AKK pipeline will play a major role in improving electricity supply, powering industries, and boosting job creation, particularly in northern Nigeria.
“The pipeline is not just a pipe in the ground—it’s a symbol of Nigeria’s industrial revival and future prosperity. It’s designed to transport up to 2.2 billion standard cubic feet of gas daily, supplying power plants in Abuja, Kaduna, and Kano,” he said.
According to him, over 1,900 jobs have already been created, with more opportunities expected once the project becomes operational due to its economic ripple effects.
Ojulari also highlighted the environmental benefits of the pipeline, explaining that natural gas will help reduce reliance on diesel and cut carbon emissions. He noted its role in enhancing agricultural value chains, lowering transport costs, and strengthening regional trade through possible extensions into North Africa.
Project officials say construction is making steady progress. The Executive Director of Projects at Nigeria Gas Infrastructure Company Ltd, Audu Ibrahim, confirmed that Segment One of the pipeline is nearly 80% complete, with overall mainline completion at 83% as of July 19, 2025.
“We’ve completed river and road crossings and are entering pre-commissioning stages. The goal is to finish mechanical works end-to-end by November,” he said.
The AKK project is a 40-inch, high-pressure gas pipeline designed to operate at 1,000 psi and is considered a core part of Nigeria’s ‘Decade of Gas’ initiative, aimed at diversifying the energy mix and fostering gas-based industries.
NNPC officials say the project has turned a corner after facing years of skepticism, and with new contractors now engaged, the finish line is in sight.
