The United Arab Emirates has joined as a major investor in a large gas pipeline project that will connect Nigeria to Morocco and eventually supply gas to Europe.
The $25 billion project, known as the African-Atlantic Gas Pipeline, will stretch through 15 African countries and is expected to boost electricity, trade, and development across West Africa.
Morocco’s Minister of Energy Transition, Leila Benali, announced the UAE’s support while speaking to lawmakers on Tuesday. She said, “The project has won the support of IDB, OPEC Fund, EIB, and the UAE.”
Benali confirmed that Morocco has completed all the required studies and designs to begin work on the pipeline.
The project is being handled by a joint venture between Nigeria and Morocco. The pipeline will run 6,800 kilometres, including 5,100 kilometres offshore, making it the world’s longest offshore gas pipeline once completed.
In the first phase, the pipeline will connect Morocco to gas fields in Senegal and Mauritania, while also linking Ghana to Ivory Coast. The second phase will stretch from Nigeria to Ghana, and the third will connect Ivory Coast to Senegal.
Energy experts say the project will help provide steady electricity to over 400 million people living along the route and bring new investment opportunities to the region.
A Moroccan energy analyst told local media, “This pipeline is not just about gas. It’s about building stronger economies and improving the lives of millions.”
China’s Jingye Steel Group has been selected to supply the pipes for the construction.
The pipeline is also expected to support the region’s push for clean energy, as Morocco hopes to become a leader in green hydrogen and renewable power.
With the UAE now joining other international backers, including the Islamic Development Bank and the OPEC Fund, the Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline is seen as one of Africa’s most important energy projects.
