The Morocco-Nigeria pipeline project, connecting Nigeria and Morocco, is progressing “extremely favorably,” says Amina Benkhadra Director of the National Office of Hydrocarbons and Mines (ONHYM).
This strategic pipeline project, initiated by King Mohammed VI and former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, now has current President Bola Tinubu‘s support.
The project aims to enhance energy access in African nations with less than 40% electrification, boosting regional development and stability.
Benkhadra highlighted that the pipeline represents crucial South-South cooperation, driving economic and social growth, particularly in the mining sector.
It is expected to create jobs, promote sustainable development, and help stabilize youth across the region by providing reliable energy.
The Gazoduc will also increase regional integration and address Africa’s low global integration levels, fostering overall economic and developmental progress.
Furthermore, the pipeline will enable gas exports to Europe, reducing the continent’s dependence on other suppliers and diversifying energy sources.
A recent workshop in Abidjan focused on finalizing the project’s Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) and Host Government Agreement (HGA).
Benkhadra commended the participation of experts from 13 countries, which demonstrated a strong collective commitment to the project’s success.
The IGA, crucial for defining project management and governance, took one year to develop with previous workshops held in Rabat and Marrakech.
Thanks to ECOWAS’s involvement, the project is nearing completion, with ongoing discussions between experts, energy ministers, and national companies.