Oil & Gas

The Moroccan-Nigerian gas pipeline is making substantial progress, following fruitful high-level meetings between the host countries. This ambitious project, set to become the world’s longest offshore pipeline at 5,600 kilometers, will traverse 12 West African countries, extending from Nigeria through Morocco and eventually supplying Europe via Spain. Recent discussions in Rabat from July 15 to 19, 2024, involved officials from the participating nations, ECOWAS representatives, and Moroccan agencies, underscoring a strong commitment to advancing the project and addressing key aspects such as environmental impact and feasibility studies.

As a major cross-border initiative, the pipeline project is coordinated by ECOWAS, which facilitates agreements and treaties between the host states, establishes a supreme pipeline authority, and collaborates with the African Union, the United Nations, and other international organizations. The pipeline is expected to drive significant economic growth, job creation, and enhanced energy access across West Africa, while also offering a reliable gas supply to Europe a critical consideration as Europe seeks alternatives to Russian gas following geopolitical tensions.

Despite the potential benefits, the project faces substantial challenges, including a projected cost of up to $25 billion and complex geopolitical issues such as security concerns and political instability in the region. The timeline for construction remains uncertain, with the final investment decision delayed. A previous meeting between Nigerian Oil Minister Ekberkebi Ekpo and Morocco’s Minister of Energy Transition, Leila Benali, aimed to expedite the decision, which is now anticipated in early 2025.

To support the pipeline’s development, efforts are underway to attract investments from sovereign wealth funds, oil companies, and banks. An agreement is in place for Europe to purchase all the gas produced once the pipeline connects to the Morocco-Europe pipeline. A new company will be established to manage the financing, construction, and operation of the pipeline, opening opportunities for various investors to contribute to this transformative energy project.