Fidelity Bank Plc has commended the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), and Oilserv, contractors to the $2.8bn Ajaokuta – Kaduna – Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline Project, which was flagged off Tuesday, June 30, 2020, with the ground breaking ceremony at Ajaokuta, Kogi State.
Designed in line with the key objectives of the Federal Government of Nigeria’s Gas Masterplan, the AKK Project was borne out of the need to not only boost domestic gas utilisation in the country, but reduce the infrastructure deficit plaguing the oil and gas Industry.
President Muhammadu Buhari, speaking during the ground breaking ceremony, said the landmark project was being developed at a critical time in Nigeria’s history, particularly now when it has become imperative to improve the country’s infrastructure asset.
The AKK Gas Pipeline Project, he said will provide gas for generation of power, facilitate the development of new industries and revive moribund industries along transit towns in Kogi State, Abuja (FCT), Niger State, Kaduna State and Kano State.
“When operational, the cascading effect and impact of the project will be immeasurable. It has significant job creation potential both direct and indirect, while fostering the development and utilisation of local skills and manpower, technology transfer and promotion of local manufacturing” the President said.
Mallam Mele Kyari, the Managing Director of NNPC, Commended the Nigerian President for the governments push and support to jumpstart the project which he said, is critical to national development.
Kyari explained that the project, when completed, will create an enabling environment for development, adding that NNPC has the capacity to deliver and create opportunities for the growth of other industries in Nigeria.
Mr. Nnamdi Okonkwo, Fidelity Bank CEO, also speaking at the ceremony, stated that the bank was delighted to be associated with the laudable initiative to improve gas supply, enhance power generation and boost the productive capacity of the Nigerian Industrial sector.
Okonkwo, who was represented by the Executive Director, North, Mr. Hassan Imam pledged Fidelity Bank’s commitment to Oil Serv, the contractor of this project
