The Nigeria–Morocco gas pipeline project, valued at an estimated $25 billion, is moving into a decisive phase with the establishment of a project company and the expansion of its pool of international financial backers.
Spanning nearly 6,000 kilometres, the pipeline is designed to transform energy access across West Africa while reinforcing links to Europe. Considered one of Africa’s most ambitious energy ventures, it aims to deliver between 15 and 30 billion cubic metres of gas annually.
The project will serve 13 coastal West African states — covering a combined population of around 400 million people — while inland connections will link Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali to the main line.
Amina Benkhadra, Director General of the National Office of Hydrocarbons and Mines (ONHYM), confirmed this week that the creation of a project company is under way, marking a critical step towards organising financing and implementation.
Technical studies completed in 2025 confirmed the viability of the nearly 6,000 km route. Once complete, the pipeline will connect to the Maghreb–Europe Gas Pipeline, providing Nigerian gas with direct access to European markets.
Project governance will follow a multi-tiered structure, with a lead company supported by regional entities overseeing specific segments.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) endorsed the coordination framework earlier this year.
In July, an additional protocol signed in Rabat between the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), ONHYM, and the Togolese Gas Company (SOTOGAZ) formally added Togo as a public partner.
On financing, Energy Minister Leila Benali announced that the United Arab Emirates has joined a consortium of institutions already backing the project, which includes the European Investment Bank (EIB), the Islamic Development Bank (IDB), and the OPEC Fund.
The newly formed project company will spearhead efforts to secure funding and lead construction, with a final investment decision expected before the end of 2025.
About The Author
