NNPC’s OB3 gas pipeline to deliver 2.2B cubic feet of gas
In a significant step towards enhancing Nigeria’s gas supply, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) is on the brink of completing the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben (OB3) Gas Pipeline project. This crucial infrastructure is set to facilitate the delivery of 2.2 billion standard cubic feet of gas per day, propelling industrialization and economic growth across the nation.
Overcoming Challenges to Drive Gas Revolution
During an inspection tour of the OB3 pipeline River Niger Crossing operation at Aboh, Delta State, Mr. Mele Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, confirmed the project’s imminent completion. The OB3 Gas Pipeline serves as an inter-connector linking the Eastern gas pipeline network to the Escravos-Lagos Pipeline System (ELPS) in the West and the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) Pipeline in the North, thus creating a robust nationwide gas distribution network.
The River Niger crossing operation has been a significant bottleneck in completing the OB3 Gas Pipeline for over three years. Multiple technological approaches failed to construct the 48-inch pipe under the riverbed between Ndoni in Rivers State and Aboh in Delta State. However, the adoption of the Micro-Tunnelling/Direct Pipe Installation technology by new contractors, HDD Thailand/Enikkom and Tunnelling Services Group (TSG), has achieved notable progress, with 860 meters out of the 1,800 meters already completed.
A Major Milestone for Nigeria’s Gas Industry
Expressing his satisfaction after the inspection tour, Kyari highlighted the breakthrough as a critical milestone. “This is a major project of monumental value to our country. It is the only way we can deliver the gas revolution. I am very happy and convinced that, latest by the middle of August, we will complete this project. I have been assured of that by the project team,” Kyari stated.
He further emphasized the project’s significance: “Once completed, we will see about 2.2 billion standard cubic feet of gas coming into our network. This will provide our country with a breathing space for demand. I am sure we can meet this demand in the next year and a half. This project will unleash the gas revolution in our country.”
Government and Stakeholder Support
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, expressed his optimism regarding the project’s progress, describing it as “Renewed Hope at work.” Ekpo noted, “I was here last year and saw the ongoing work. There was a promise it would be completed by December last year. I had my doubts, but today, from what I see, I am confident that by July or August, it will be completed and commissioned by the President.”
Special Adviser to the President on Energy, Olu Verheijen, also voiced her anticipation for the project’s completion. “As the Minister and other speakers have said, we look forward to this project delivering prosperity to Nigerians in the form of electricity and other benefits,” Verheijen remarked.
Ingo Justen, Managing Director of Tunnel Service Group (TSG), one of the project contractors, expressed confidence in the current technology’s effectiveness in overcoming previous challenges. The Managing Director of NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company (NGIC), Seyi Omotowa, also confirmed the project’s timely progress. “At the rate of progress with the new technology deployed, the River Niger Crossing operation, which is the only aspect of the OB3 Gas Pipeline Project left, will be achieved on schedule,” Omotowa assured.
Economic and Industrial Impact
The OB3 Gas Pipeline is poised to significantly impact Nigeria’s economy and industrial landscape. By providing a steady and reliable gas supply, the project will drive industrialization, reduce energy costs, and enhance the overall economic growth of the country. The integration of the Eastern and Western gas pipeline networks with the Northern pipeline through the AKK Pipeline ensures a comprehensive and resilient energy infrastructure.
Technological Breakthrough
The successful application of Micro-Tunnelling/Direct Pipe Installation technology marks a critical technological breakthrough for Nigeria’s gas industry. This innovative approach has resolved the complex challenges of the River Niger crossing, demonstrating the potential for similar projects in the future.
A Vision for the Future
The OB3 Gas Pipeline project aligns with Nigeria’s broader vision of becoming a global energy hub. By harnessing its vast natural gas reserves, Nigeria aims to achieve energy security, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and support sustainable economic development.
The project also underscores the importance of strategic planning and stakeholder collaboration in overcoming infrastructure challenges. The combined efforts of NNPC Ltd, government officials, and technology experts have been pivotal in navigating the complexities of the OB3 Gas Pipeline project.
