In a significant development in Africa’s energy sector, Mr. Mele Kyari, the Managing Director/CEO of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), has revealed that the Final Investment Decision (FID) for the ambitious Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline is slated for December 2024.
This announcement marks a crucial milestone in the realization of one of Africa’s most ambitious energy infrastructure projects to date.
The Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline project underscores Nigeria’s commitment to becoming a key player in the global energy market. Designed to span thirteen African countries and eventually reach European shores, this pipeline project is poised to reshape the continent’s energy landscape.
Initiated through a groundbreaking deal signed in 2017, the $25 billion pipeline will stretch an impressive 5,300 kilometers with a diameter of 48 inches, connecting Nigeria to Dhakia, Morocco. Upon completion, it is projected to transport approximately 30 billion cubic feet of gas annually. This vast infrastructure undertaking holds the promise of revolutionizing energy distribution across Africa and facilitating access to European markets.
The project aligns seamlessly with the broader objectives of President Tinubu’s administration, which has placed a premium on gas as a pivotal alternative energy source and a catalyst for economic diversification. Indeed, the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline stands as a testament to the administration’s commitment to sustainable energy development and regional economic integration across Africa.
Beyond its immediate economic implications, the pipeline represents a visionary investment in Africa’s energy future. By bolstering energy security, fostering economic diversification, and promoting socio-economic development among participating nations, the project is poised to leave a lasting legacy on the continent.
As stakeholders gear up for the Final Investment Decision later this year, anticipation mounts for the commencement of construction on what promises to be a transformative energy infrastructure project for Africa and beyond.