Oilserv Group of Companies, under the leadership of its Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Engr. Emeka Okwuosa, CON, has affirmed its commitment to completing the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) gas pipeline project by July/August 2024. The project, spanning 614 kilometers and involving the construction of segment A, is a crucial initiative for advancing the gas infrastructure in Nigeria.
Engr. Okwuosa shared this assurance during an inspection tour conducted by the Minister of State, Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo. The focus of the inspection was on assessing the progress at the Pai River crossing section in Kwali area council of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Emphasizing the uniqueness of the Pai River crossing, Engr. Okwuosa highlighted the application of Horizontal Directional Drilling Technology to ensure the precision and excellence of the project execution.
When questioned about the project’s completion timeline, he stated, “From our schedule, I know we are finishing next year. On the main pipeline itself that will deliver the gas, we are optimistic that by July or August next year, we would be done.” He acknowledged the upcoming challenges in the river crossings area and affirmed the company’s dedication to overcoming them.
Engr. Okwuosa expressed gratitude to the Federal Government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) for their unwavering support, which he credited as instrumental in the project’s progress. He specifically praised Minister Ekperikpe Ekpo for his commitment, describing it as a reflection of a patriotic stance beyond his ministerial role.
Highlighting the significance of the AKK gas pipeline project for Nigeria’s economic development, Engr. Okwuosa elucidated, “For the gas itself, the AKK project is very critical and important in gas delivery in Nigeria. It is a major segment of the Nigerian gas master plan designed to distribute gas across the country and provide energy.” He envisioned the completion of the project facilitating gas delivery to both the Northern and Southern parts of Nigeria, thereby fostering economic growth.
Engr. Okwuosa outlined the transformative impact of the project, stating, “This project will change the landscape of energy delivery, and the economy of Nigeria will change.” He emphasized the multifaceted benefits, including the availability of gas for power generation, Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) for vehicles, the establishment of fertilizer plants to support agriculture, and the overall enhancement of the nation’s energy infrastructure.
In acknowledging the pivotal role of NNPCL in supporting the project, Engr. Okwuosa assured that, despite challenges, the company’s commitment exceeded 100%, and efforts were underway to navigate obstacles and adhere to the project’s schedule. The completion of the AKK gas pipeline project stands poised not only to reshape Nigeria’s energy sector but also to contribute significantly to the nation’s economic prosperity.
