Breaking: NNPC Finishes Long-Awaited OB3 River Niger Pipeline Project

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) Gas Infrastructure Company has announced the successful completion of the River Niger crossing on the 130-kilometre Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben (OB3) Gas Pipeline, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s gas transmission expansion.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The NGIC, a wholly owned subsidiary of NNPC Limited, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Thursday by its Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh.

According to the statement, the completion of the crossing unlocks the full capacity of the OB3 Pipeline, a strategic project designed to transport up to two billion standard cubic feet of gas per day.

The company noted that once fully operational, the pipeline is expected to improve gas availability, strengthen supply reliability, and contribute significantly to national economic growth.

The River Niger crossing, executed approximately two kilometres beneath the riverbed, was described as one of the most technically complex phases of the project. It was delivered by the NNPC project team in collaboration with PCE Nig. Limited, using advanced horizontal directional drilling technology.

‘Defining milestone’ – Ojulari

Reacting to the achievement, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Bashir Bayo Ojulari, described the development as a landmark success in Nigeria’s gas infrastructure journey.

He said the completion of the OB3 River Niger crossing demonstrated what disciplined execution and sustained technical commitment can achieve, adding that it would enhance gas supply reliability and support power generation and industrial development nationwide.

Ojulari also noted that the achievement builds on previous engineering successes, including the completion of the AKK River Niger crossing in June 2025.

He attributed the success to strengthened project governance, innovative engineering approaches, and the dedication of both NNPC teams and its partners.

The GCEO further stated that the OB3 Pipeline remains a key component of NNPC’s vision to build a fully integrated and resilient national gas network.

He expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for its support and for creating a favourable environment for project execution.

Ojulari also acknowledged the NNPC Board of Directors, chaired by Engr. Ahmadu Musa Kida, for its leadership and guidance.

He reaffirmed NNPC’s commitment to converting Nigeria’s oil and gas resources into improved living standards, while collaborating with stakeholders to expand energy access, support industrial growth, and enhance national development.

The OB3 Pipeline is designed to connect Nigeria’s eastern and western gas networks while extending supply through the Northern corridor via the AKK Pipeline.

In the short term, the project is expected to release over 500 million standard cubic feet of additional gas into the domestic market, boosting electricity generation, industrial activity, and export potential within the West African region.