In a bold move to ensure the timely completion of the 614-kilometer Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano gas pipelines project, Minister of State Petroleum Resources, Ekperikpe Ekpo, has issued a stern warning to the contractors involved not to default on the promised July/August 2024 completion deadline.
A spokesperson for the Minister, Louis Ibah, confirmed that the Minister issued the deadline during a recent tour of the project.
The Minister expressed concerns about the sluggish pace of work and demanded an update from Emeka Okuosa, Chairman of Oilserve Limited, one of the project’s contractors.
Okuosa acknowledged the challenges affecting the project, including insecurity in neighboring Niger State and a right-of-way characterized by rocky terrain and rivers.
However, he assured that the project would be completed for inauguration between July and August 2024. Oilserve Limited is collaborating with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPCL) and security agencies to address the security issues and ensure contractors work around the clock to meet the deadline.
The Minister, joined by Farouk Ahmed, the Authority Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, as well as top NNPCL officials and industry stakeholders, emphasized the importance of adhering to the July/August 2024 deadline.
The Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano gas pipelines project is critical for boosting energy infrastructure in Nigeria and driving economic growth.
The government is committed to overcoming the challenges and ensuring its successful completion.