The West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP) is set to undergo a pipeline maintenance. West African Gas Pipeline Company Limited (WAPCO’s) General Manager, Corporate Affairs, Dr. Isaac Doku made the announcement and said the plans will lead to suspension of natural gas supply from Nigeria to Benin and Togo.
The maintenance aligns with regulatory and safety requirements, ensuring the long-term reliability of the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP). It will take place from February 5 to March 2, 2025, affecting economic and industrial implications for these countries, especially for industries reliant on natural gas. However, WAPCO’s assurance that supply to Takoradi will continue may help mitigate some disruptions.
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The scope of work include the pigging and the in-line inspection of the 569 km offshore pipeline infrastructure from Ajido, Lagos State. Nigeria to Takoradi, western region of Ghana, and replacement of critical subsea valves at Tema and Cotonou to enhance operational safety.
The maintenance exercise is conducted in two phases. The first phase was completed in December 2024 and focused on cleaning and inspecting the onshore section of the pipeline within Nigeria. The second phase targets the offshore section of the WAGP.
The 569-kilometer offshore pipeline stretching from Itoki in the Ifo local government area of Ogun State, Nigeria to Takoradi in Ghana’s Western region, supplies natural gas to the aforementioned West African countries.
“WAPCo is mandated to conduct these inspections every five years (or on a risk-based schedule) as part of its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the WAG and ensuring its safe and reliable operation across the West African region. The company will continue to engage with relevant stakeholders on all matters to ensure the project’s safe execution and success,” said Dr. Isaac Doku.
