Equatorial Guinea has officially joined the ambitious Morocco-Nigeria gas pipeline project, which aims to connect Morocco to Nigeria, marking a significant milestone in the African energy sector.
This move also represents a strategic expansion into Central Africa, emphasizing regional integration through energy infrastructure. The announcement was made during an official ceremony in Malabo, attended by representatives from member states and key stakeholders. Equatorial Guinea’s participation underscores its commitment to one of Africa’s most significant energy projects. While the total project cost is estimated at $25 billion, the involvement of new regional partners like Equatorial Guinea is expected to enhance financing and ensure long-term sustainability.
Significance of the Morocco-Nigeria Gas Pipeline Project
The Morocco-Nigeria gas pipeline, once completed, will span over 5,600 kilometers, crossing multiple West and Central African countries to transport natural gas to Morocco, with potential exports to Europe. This project offers a unique opportunity to diversify energy sources and strengthen the energy security of participating African nations while opening avenues for exports to Europe. The European market is increasingly seeking reliable and alternative energy sources, making this project particularly timely. Socio-economically, the project is expected to create thousands of jobs during the construction phase and improve energy access in regions typically underserved by traditional supply networks. This could significantly reduce energy poverty and stimulate local economic growth.
Current Status of the Multi-Billion Dollar Project
Despite the significant economic and strategic challenges, there is optimism surrounding the Morocco-Nigeria gas pipeline project. For Equatorial Guinea, a country with an established gas sector, joining this initiative provides new opportunities for energy resource exports, infrastructure investment, and local development. Upon completion, the pipeline will be the world’s longest offshore pipeline and the second-longest overall. Based on the 25-year timeline projected in 2017, construction is expected to be completed by 2046.
In June 2023, Côte d’Ivoire, Liberia, Guinea, and Benin signed agreements with Morocco and Nigeria to join the project. This signing ceremony took place at the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) headquarters in Lagos, Nigeria, alongside a steering committee meeting for the project, attended by representatives from ECOWAS and the involved countries. With this development, ten countries are now participating in the project, including Mauritania, Senegal, Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Sierra Leone, and Ghana.
Other Significant Energy Projects in Africa
In addition to the Morocco-Nigeria gas pipeline, Morocco is advancing as a green energy hub with the development of Africa’s first offshore wind farm. The Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy (Masen) and the European Investment Bank (EIB) have issued a tender for a feasibility study for what could become Africa’s largest offshore wind farm. The proposed site is in the Atlantic Ocean off Essaouira, known for its strong winds and shallow waters, making it a prime location for wind energy.
