NNPC Limited has announced the successful completion of a critical segment of the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben (OB3) Gas Pipeline, marking a major step in expanding Nigeria’s gas transmission network.
The milestone involves the crossing of the River Niger, a technically challenging phase of the 130-kilometre pipeline project designed to transport up to 2 billion standard cubic feet of gas daily.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the company said the crossing was executed approximately two kilometres beneath the riverbed using advanced horizontal directional drilling technology, in collaboration with PCE Nig. Limited.
The Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Bashir Bayo Ojulari, described the development as a major achievement for Nigeria’s energy infrastructure.
“The completion of the OB3 River Niger Crossing represents a significant milestone for the country’s gas network,” Ojulari said.
“By overcoming one of the most complex aspects of the project, we have strengthened gas supply reliability and created new opportunities for power generation and industrial growth.”
He noted that the feat reflects the company’s growing technical capacity, building on experience gained from a similar crossing on the AKK pipeline completed in 2025.
According to him, “This success is the result of strong project governance, innovative engineering, and the commitment of our teams and partners. The OB3 pipeline is central to our goal of building a resilient and integrated gas network that supports Nigeria’s economic development.”
Ojulari also acknowledged the support of the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that its gas development agenda has helped create an enabling environment for such projects.
He added that the pipeline will serve as a strategic link between eastern and western gas networks, with future connectivity to northern Nigeria through the AKK pipeline.
Industry experts say the completed crossing is expected to unlock over 500 million standard cubic feet of additional gas supply in the near term, boosting domestic energy availability and supporting industrial activities.
The OB3 pipeline is also seen as a key component in Nigeria’s broader ambition to increase gas production and strengthen its position in regional energy markets.
