The Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline, also known as the African-Atlantic Pipeline, is emerging as a groundbreaking initiative that promises to reshape energy integration across Africa. With significant progress underway, the project stands as a symbol of collaboration, ambition, and a transformative vision for the continent’s future. Spearheaded by Amina Benkhadra, Director-General of Morocco’s ONHYM (National Office of Hydrocarbons and Mines), this bold undertaking is steadily advancing toward realization.
Significant milestones achieved
In a recent interview with the Policy Center for the New South, shared on YouTube, Benkhadra outlined the project’s key developments. The feasibility study and detailed engineering plans are now complete, marking pivotal achievements in the pipeline’s timeline. Furthermore, environmental impact assessments and monitoring studies, launched a year ago, are ongoing to meet stringent international funding requirements and secure robust financial backing.
A massive infrastructure linking regions and markets
Spanning over 5,500 kilometers, the pipeline will run predominantly offshore from Nigeria to Dakhla before transitioning onshore through Morocco, connecting to the Maghreb-Europe Gas Pipeline. This strategic route not only aims to serve the nations it traverses but also provides a direct link to export natural gas to European markets.
Benkhadra emphasized the pipeline’s cost-effectiveness and competitiveness. Preliminary data indicate that it holds a clear edge over liquefied natural gas (LNG) alternatives in terms of both investment and transportation expenses.
Strengthening regional cooperation
The project has garnered strong support from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and Mauritania. Together, they have been instrumental in drafting an intergovernmental agreement set to be signed by the heads of state involved. This collaboration underscores the pipeline’s critical importance to West African and Sahelian nations, which face significant energy challenges.
The project is divided into three segments:
- Southern section: Links Nigeria to Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, building on an existing pipeline network.
- Northern section: Covers Senegal, Mauritania, and Morocco, integrating into the Maghreb-Europe pipeline.
- Central section: Connects landlocked Sahel countries to the broader energy network.
A vision for Africa’s energy future
Guided by the visionary leadership of Morocco’s King Mohammed VI and former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, the pipeline transcends energy goals. It represents a comprehensive approach to socio-economic development for participating African nations, many of which still experience electrification rates below 40%.
The project promises to revolutionize the region’s energy landscape by creating jobs, boosting economic sectors, and enhancing access to reliable energy. It also aligns with broader goals of fostering economic growth and environmental sustainability.
A decision looming in 2025
The year 2025 is expected to mark a turning point, with a final investment decision anticipated. Despite the challenges that lie ahead, Benkhadra remains optimistic. “Many challenges are behind us, and others are still to come. This is a large-scale, strategic, and exciting project. We will continue our efforts to bring it to fruition,” she stated confidently.
By combining ambition, technical expertise, and regional cooperation, the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline positions itself as a transformative force for Africa, driving energy integration and enhancing the continent’s strategic role on the global stage.
