Experts Urge Nigeria to Upgrade Gas Pipeline Infrastructure

At the 2026 International Pipeline Conference and Expo in Canada, energy experts Dr. Eloho Innocent Amagada, Chief Executive Officer of Amelin Projects Ltd., and Engr. Reuben Temerigha, Managing Director of Westend Diamond Energy Ltd., highlighted the necessity for Nigeria to modernize and expand its pipeline infrastructure to fully utilize its natural gas resources. Amagada stated that Nigeria possesses approximately 215.19 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of proven natural gas reserves, but the existing pipeline infrastructure, which extends over 2,500 kilometers, requires substantial investment to meet increasing domestic and export demands.

He identified several challenges, including ageing infrastructure, insecurity, and environmental concerns, which hinder pipeline development. Amagada advocated for the adoption of advanced technologies such as intelligent in-line inspection, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and real-time leak detection systems to enhance pipeline management and security.

He cited the use of Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) technology for the River Niger crossing of the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben (OB3) gas pipeline as an example of overcoming geographical challenges.