Wale Edun: AKK gas pipeline project Tinubu’s strategy to create jobs, grow economy

Wale Edun, minister of finance and coordinating minister of the economy, says the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) gas pipeline project would boost Nigeria’s economy and enhance job creation.

Edun spoke during a visit to the project site on Friday, according to a statement by Mohammed Manga, director of information and public relations of the ministry.

The minister expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far, adding that the project is a strategy of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to grow the economy and create jobs.

He also commended the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited and its team for their doggedness and dedication.

The minister said the federal government is committed to providing all necessary support to ensure the project’s completion within six to nine months.

“This ambitious project features a 40-inch by 614-kilometer pipeline stretching from Ajaokuta to Kano, complete with intermediate and terminal gas facilities,” Edun said.

“The AKK project will boost power generation, revitalise dormant industries, promote new industrial development, and provide alternative transportation fuels along its corridor.

“Thousands of employment opportunities will be created, significantly reducing poverty.

“The AKK pipeline will stem the rate of deforestation and provide an alternative fuel for power, cooking, transportation and industrial activities in key States like Abuja, Kaduna, and Kano, transforming Nigeria’s energy landscape.”

Edun further said despite challenges like COVID-19, global inflation, and extreme weather conditions, the project has advanced employing over 2,000 workers — 1,925 of whom are Nigerians.

“The project also engaged 61 local contractors, showcasing the resilience of the support from the federal government,” he added.

The AKK gas pipeline project, spearheaded by NNPCL, aims at expanding Nigeria’s gas pipeline network in response to growing power demand and the need for gas-based industries.

On June 21, the NNPC said the gas pipeline project would be delivered by the first quarter (Q1) of 2025.