West African Ministers Bolster Regional Energy Strategy for Gas Pipeline Project
Energy ministers from across West Africa have reaffirmed their strong commitment to enhancing regional energy integration through the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP), following a high-level meeting convened in Abuja. This gathering, organized by the Committee of Ministers overseeing the project, brought together key representatives from Nigeria, Benin, Togo, and Ghana, as well as major stakeholders including the Economic Community of West African States, the West African Gas Pipeline Authority, and the West African Gas Pipeline Company Limited.
Commitment to Long-Term Viability and Expansion
Speaking at the meeting, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, emphasized the country’s dedication to ensuring the long-term viability and expansion of the pipeline network. He highlighted the project’s significant impact since its inception, noting that over 613 million MMBtu of natural gas has been transported through the pipeline, with Nigeria contributing more than 68 percent of the total supply to neighboring countries.
NNPC’s Role in Sustaining Gas Exports
Also addressing stakeholders, Olalekan Ogunleye, Executive Vice President for Gas, Power and New Energy at NNPC Limited, underscored the company’s crucial role in sustaining Nigeria’s gas export obligations and advancing regional energy cooperation. Recent data reveals that gas throughput on the pipeline increased to approximately 80 million MMBtu in 2025, marking a 22 percent rise compared to previous years.
Plans to Boost Pipeline Capacity
Discussions are actively underway to enhance pipeline capacity utilization by up to 45 percent in 2026, a strategic move aimed at strengthening the commercial viability of the regional gas market. This renewed commitment by stakeholders highlights the strategic importance of the WAGP in driving energy security, fostering economic growth, and promoting cross-border collaboration across West Africa.
