Mele Kyari: NNPCL Plans to Replace 5,000km of Pipelines in Three Years

During the 2024 edition of the Society of Petroleum Engineers Oloibiri Lecture Series and Energy Forum in Abuja, Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company, announced the ambitious goal of replacing the company’s extensive 5,000km petroleum products pipeline network within a three-year timeline.

Kyari emphasized the significance of pipelines as the most cost-effective means of transporting petroleum products and highlighted the NNPC’s vast network of pipelines spanning various geopolitical zones with 27 stations nationwide.

Undertaking a Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) process, the NNPC is in the process of replacing the aging pipelines to enhance efficiency and reliability in product delivery to designated locations.

Furthermore, Kyari reassured participants that the pipeline replacement initiative was a critical priority and would be completed within the stipulated timeframe, citing the recent improvements in oil asset security aiding the nation in meeting its crude oil production targets.

He also mentioned the company’s efforts to bolster gas supply in the domestic market through various infrastructural projects, such as the Obiafu/Obrikom/Oben (OB3) and Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano pipelines, designed to fortify the nation’s gas supply network.

Kyari reiterated NNPC’s commitment to ensuring energy security beyond just fuel availability, emphasizing the importance of harnessing resources for national prosperity.

Additionally, he highlighted ongoing projects like the OB3 gas project and the AKK gas pipeline project, aimed at boosting gas supply capacity and expanding the company’s reach in the international market.

Kyari expressed confidence in the completion of four floating Liquefied Natural Gas projects by the end of the year, which would significantly increase gas export capabilities.

The SPE members were acknowledged for their indispensable contribution to NNPC’s core operations in oil and gas production and transportation, as noted by Kyari at the event. Salahuddeen Tahir, Chairperson of the SPE Nigeria Council, underscored the pivotal role of energy in modern society, emphasizing the need for a sustainable and diversified energy transportation system.

The event also celebrated the recognition of Olufemi Soneye, NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, as the 2024 Distinguished Spokesperson in Oil and Gas by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, showcasing his exceptional work in managing the company’s image.

Soneye dedicated the award to Kyari for his invaluable support and mentorship, highlighting the collective efforts of the corporate communications team in upholding communication excellence within the organization.