The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has announced that the mainline section of the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline is nearly complete, with the project now at 95% completion. The remaining 5% involves finishing auxiliary stations and connecting end-users. The pipeline is expected to significantly boost gas availability and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) supply across Northern Nigeria.
Group Chief Executive Officer Bashir Ojulari revealed that gas delivery to Abuja is anticipated before the end of 2026, with supplies extending to Kaduna and Kano by 2027. The project has already secured $1.5 billion in funding based on projected pipeline throughput. Ojulari emphasized that the AKK pipeline will serve as a backbone for future expansions, making it easier to extend gas supply to cities like Maiduguri and Sokoto.
However, the project has faced protests from A.B. Janruwa Enterprises, which demands compensation for over four hectares of land allegedly taken over in Kano State for the development corridor linked to the AKK Gas Pipeline Project. The company claims the land was acquired from local farmers for a factory expansion project expected to create more than 2,000 jobs. The dispute highlights concerns about landowners' rights during large-scale infrastructure projects in Nigeria.
The Kano State Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning has assured that all affected landowners will be compensated and urged the company to remain calm. Development expert Hussaini Bukar argued that paying prompt and adequate compensation protects constitutional property rights, prevents disputes, and encourages investor confidence.