President Muhammad Buhari took part of the virtual flag-off ceremony of the construction of the 614km Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) gas pipeline project, on Tuesday at the State House, Abuja.
Governors Yahaya Bello of Kogi State and Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna physically flagged off the commencement of works at Ajaokuta and Rigachikun sites, while the President watched remotely via video-conference from the Council Chamber in Abuja.
The President speaking at the virtual flag-off ceremony of the project at the Ajaokuta, Kogi State and Rigachikun, Kaduna State campsites simultaneously, President Buhari said the project was very dear to the people of Nigeria and must succeed.
The President, therefore, directed the NNPC and partners to remain focused, noting that the AKK project is part of the delivery of the present administration’s Next Level Agenda for sustainable development, enhancement of economic prosperity and increase of the country’s infrastructure assets.
President Buhari said: ‘‘we promised the Nation that we will expand the critical gas infrastructure in the country to promote the use of gas in the domestic market.
‘‘These include the Escravos to Lagos Pipeline System-2 (ELPS-2), Obiafu to Obrikom (OB3) pipeline and AKK.
‘‘These projects are fundamental to our desire to industrialize and energize the entrepreneurial spirit that is ever-present in our population.’’
Enumerating the benefits of the project, billed to be completed in two years, the President said it will provide gas for generation of power and for gas-based industries which would facilitate the development of new industries.
It will also ensure the revival of moribund industries along with transit towns in Kogi State, Abuja (FCT), Niger State, Kaduna State and Kano State, he said, adding that the cascading effect and impact of the AKK, when operational, will be immeasurable.
His words: ‘‘It has significant job creation potential both direct and indirect while fostering the development and utilization of local skills and manpower, technology transfer and promotion of local manufacturing”.
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