The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), through its subsidiary NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company, has completed the River Niger crossing of the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben (OB3) Gas Pipeline, marking a major milestone in Nigeria’s gas infrastructure expansion.
The crossing, executed about two kilometres beneath the riverbed using advanced horizontal directional drilling technology, unlocks the full capacity of the 130-kilometre pipeline.
Designed to transport up to 2 billion standard cubic feet of gas per day, the OB3 pipeline is expected to significantly improve energy supply, reliability, and economic development across the country.
NNPCL’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Bashir Bayo Ojulari, described the achievement as a testament to strong project execution and engineering excellence.
He noted that the milestone strengthens Nigeria’s gas transmission network by linking eastern and western gas systems, while also extending supply to the northern corridor.
Ojulari added that the project builds on previous successes, including the AKK pipeline crossing, and reflects the company’s growing technical capabilities.
The pipeline is expected to boost domestic gas utilisation, support power generation, and drive industrial growth, with an estimated 500 million standard cubic feet of additional gas supply for the local market.
He also acknowledged the support of the Federal Government, project partners, and host communities in delivering the critical infrastructure.
The OB3 pipeline is considered a key component of Nigeria’s long-term energy strategy, aimed at enhancing energy security and supporting broader economic growth targets.
