
Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, has announced a target to complete the Obrikom, Obiafo, Oben, OB3, gas pipeline project by August 2024, a key component of Nigeria’s energy transition plan.
The 2.2 billion standard cubic feet, bscf, capacity pipeline project, which begins from Obrikom in Rivers State and runs to Delta State, will connect the eastern gas pipeline network to the Escravos-Lagos Pipeline System, ELPS, and the AKK Pipeline, significantly enhancing Nigeria’s gas infrastructure.
Ekpo on his X handle said his commitment to fast-tracking the project aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision to harness gas as Nigeria’s transition fuel, driving industrialization and economic growth.
The Minister after an inspection tour of the OB3 gas pipeline project at the weekend, expressed satisfaction with the project’s progress, noting the successful implementation of innovative Micro-Tunnelling and Direct Pipe Installation technology.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has promised to use gas as Nigeria’s transition fuel, and today’s inspection of î88 step towards fulfilling that promise.
“Accompanied by Group CEO of NNPC Ltd., Mr. Mele Kyari, and Special Adviser to the President on Energy, Olu Verheijen, we observed the progress on this pivotal project, which will connect our Eastern gas pipeline network to the Escravos-Lagos Pipeline System, ELPS and the AKK Pipeline.
“With the adoption of the Micro-Tunnelling/Direct Pipe Installation technology by HDD Thailand/Enikkom and Tunnelling Services Group, TSG, significant progress has been made. About 860 meters of the 1,800-meter crossing has been achieved, and we are confident in completing the project by August 2024.
“The OB3 Gas Pipeline will bring about 2.2 billion standard cubic f
eet of gas into our network, providing a substantial boost to our industrialization and economic growth.
“This project truly represents ‘Renewed Hope at work.’ Together, we are ushering in a new era of energy security and prosperity for Nigeria.”