The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and industry stakeholders have intensified efforts to attract investors as the Ajaokuta–Gwagwalada segment of the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano gas pipeline prepares for its expected first gas delivery by July 2026, officials said.

The Ajaokuta–Gwagwalada section is part of the wider AKK pipeline network, a key national infrastructure project intended to enhance domestic gas supply, support power generation and stimulate industrial activity across northern Nigeria, according to NNPC Ltd representatives.

NNPC Ltd has urged investors to explore opportunities in gas infrastructure, including compressed natural gas facilities, as the country continues its strategic shift from oil to gas, the Executive Vice President for Gas, Power and New Energy, Olalekan Ogunleye, said during a stakeholders’ workshop on mini‑LNG and L‑CNG infrastructure in Abuja.

At the workshop organised by Portland Gas Limited, Ogunleye said Nigeria has transitioned to a gas‑first strategy as part of its energy security and industrial growth agenda. He noted that Nigeria holds over 210 trillion cubic feet of proven gas reserves.

Ogunleye stated that the AKK pipeline, including the Ajaokuta–Gwagwalada segment, is expected to deliver first gas by July 2026, linking northern industrial centres to gas supply that could support power generation, manufacturing expansion and alternative fuel distribution.

He also highlighted that the compressed natural gas sector has drawn more than $200 million in private investment and established over 300 vehicle conversion centres nationwide.

The proposed Gwagwalada mini‑LNG and L‑CNG facility was also discussed as a project that aligns with national goals for expanding domestic gas infrastructure and improving energy resilience.

NNPC Ltd said it will supply piped gas to the Gwagwalada plant from the AKK pipeline.

Officials mentioned that enhancing gas utilisation may help reduce dependence on imported fuels and improve transport cost efficiency.