The Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline project is set to receive financial backing from the United Arab Emirates. This support comes in addition to contributions from international partners such as the European Investment Bank (EIB), the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), and the OPEC Fund, according to Morocco’s Minister of Energy Transition, Leila Benali.
Stretching over 5,660 kilometers, the transformative infrastructure initiative will start in Nigeria, pass through 13 to 15 West African countries, and end in Morocco, where it will connect to European gas networks. The project estimated at US $25bn, is designed to carry 30 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually, making it a key link between African energy producers and European consumers.
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Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline
Morocco has completed feasibility and technical studies, paving the way for implementation. A joint venture between Nigeria and Morocco has also been formed to manage the pipeline’s construction and future operations.
The project aims to; enhance energy security across the region, reduce natural gas flaring in Nigeria, promote regional economic integration, and offer Europe a more diverse and reliable gas supply route. A major development includes awarding a contract to China’s Jingye Steel Group to supply the pipeline infrastructure. Meanwhile, the United States has also expressed interest in the project, underlining its global strategic importance. Initial gas deliveries are expected to begin by 2029, marking a significant milestone in Afro-European energy cooperation.
Nigeria, with its proven 209 trillion cubic feet of gas reserves, expressed readiness and interest in the project. The country sees natural gas as a viable and low-carbon-emission option, particularly in the context of global discussions on climate change.