The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has emphasized the transformative potential of the ongoing Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) gas pipeline project, describing it as a catalyst for unlocking northern Nigeria’s economic vitality.
During a site visit to the River Kaduna AKK Gas Pipeline Project, Minister Idris, accompanied by Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, Minister of State, Gas Resources, Mr. Ekperikpe Ekpo, and NNPC’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, underscored the project’s significance in enhancing energy accessibility across homes, businesses, and industries.
“The AKK project is pivotal in unleashing Northern Nigeria’s economic potential. The transported gas will not only provide essential energy but also facilitate affordable transportation, bolstering economic activities,” Minister Idris stated.
He praised the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing and expediting the AKK project, noting its status as Nigeria’s largest domestic gas pipeline initiative to date.
Minister Idris highlighted the project’s role in fostering industrialization and economic prosperity nationwide, aligning with President Tinubu’s agenda for comprehensive national development.
“Energizing homes, farms, and industries is crucial for job creation and economic stability,” Minister Idris emphasized, pointing to the AKK project’s potential to enhance the agricultural value chain, a cornerstone of Northern Nigeria’s economy.
Discussing broader impacts, Minister Idris referenced recent gas infrastructure projects in the Niger Delta and announced an upcoming inspection of the OB3 Pipeline River Niger Crossing Project in Rivers State.
He also lauded the AKK project’s synergy with the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (Pi-CNG), attracting substantial private investments exceeding USD 50 million.
This initiative aims to establish CNG conversion and refueling facilities nationwide, further leveraging Nigeria’s abundant gas resources.
Minister Idris expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s vision for the “Decade of Gas,” foreseeing renewed economic prospects and national rejuvenation through transformative energy projects like the AKK pipeline.
“The AKK pipeline project stands as a beacon of hope, promising to revive and revitalize economic opportunities across Nigeria,” Minister Idris concluded, reaffirming its pivotal role in driving sustainable development and prosperity.