Senate President Godswill Akpabio has said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is fully committed to the $25 billion Nigeria–Morocco gas pipeline. He described the project as a strategic step for regional growth and energy development.
Speaking at the African Parliament’s executive session in Casablanca, Akpabio, represented by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, noted that Tinubu plans to revisit all abandoned projects nationwide. He said the gas pipeline ranks highest on the federal government’s list of priorities.
Massive Pipeline to Link 13 Countries
The Nigeria–Morocco gas pipeline will stretch 5,660 kilometres and transport 30 billion cubic metres of gas annually. It will pass through 13 countries, including Nigeria, Benin, Togo, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Gambia, Senegal, Mauritania, and Morocco.
Nigeria will serve as the central supplier. Akpabio described the project as more than a pipeline. He said it is a key to connecting Africa and boosting energy cooperation.
The Senate President said the project will create thousands of jobs and power industries across West Africa. It will also support digital development by providing stable energy for data centers and tech hubs.
Akpabio stressed that access to energy remains critical for Africa’s growth. He added that the project could help nations attract foreign investors and improve local economies.
Akpabio urged Morocco to lift visa restrictions on Nigerian travelers. He said easing movement would unlock business and investment opportunities created by the pipeline.
He also called for the Atlantic corridor to open for greater trade. According to him, smooth trade routes will help Africa tap into global energy markets.
The pipeline is in its feasibility and planning phase. Talks between Nigeria, Morocco, and other partners are still ongoing. The final investment decision, first expected in 2023, is now set for 2025.
Senator Ibrahim confirmed that the Senate is preparing key laws to support the project. He said Akpabio is leading efforts to remove legal hurdles that could slow progress.
Continental Reach and Global Impact
The pipeline, led by NNPCL and Morocco’s ONHYM, has the support of several international investors. Analysts believe it could help Africa play a bigger role in global energy supply.
Europe is seeking alternatives to Russian gas, and this project may offer a reliable solution. Akpabio believes the pipeline will boost Nigeria’s energy exports and create long-term benefits for the continent.
