Bennali: The African-Atlantic Gas Pipeline Project Between Nigeria and Morocco has Made Significant Progress
The Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, Leila Bennali, announced that the African-Atlantic gas pipeline project between Nigeria and Morocco has made significant strides. The feasibility study and preliminary engineering studies have been completed, along with the identification of the optimal route for the pipeline.
During a session of oral questions in the House of Councillors, Bennali affirmed that the project will advance in phases. Currently, preparations are underway to establish a special purpose vehicle between the Moroccan and Nigerian sides, as well as to prepare for a final investment decision expected before the end of this year.
The minister noted that the recent ministerial meeting concerning the project saw the endorsement of the governmental agreement among member countries, as well as the host country agreement, reflecting the institutional progress being made in this continental initiative.
Bennali emphasized that the project, with an estimated cost of around $25 billion, represents a lever for economic, industrial, and digital development in the region. It is set to position Morocco as a strategic energy hub between Africa, Europe, and the Atlantic basin, alongside its role in creating job opportunities and enhancing regional integration.
She also mentioned that the government launched requests for expressions of interest last April to develop the national natural gas infrastructure, which will connect the Port of Nador, Kenitra, and Mohammedia to Dakhla, aiming to integrate with the African-Atlantic gas pipeline.
This energy project spans 6,000 kilometers, traversing several African countries with a transportation capacity ranging between 15 and 30 billion cubic meters annually. It will enable energy delivery to approximately 400 million people across 13 countries, thereby enhancing energy security and sustainable development on the continent.
