FG Reaffirms Commitment to West African Gas Pipeline, Seeks Stronger ECOWAS Support
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the success of the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP), describing it as a key driver of regional integration, energy security, and economic growth across West Africa.
Speaking at a meeting of the Committee of Ministers (CoM) of the WAGP project, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas) and Chairman of the Committee, Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, said Nigeria remains fully committed to the reliability, security, and sustainability of the pipeline.
He described the project as more than infrastructure, noting that it serves as a practical tool for regional cooperation and shared prosperity among member states. Ekpo stressed that Nigeria, as the major gas supplier and a founding member, places high strategic importance on the initiative.
The minister explained that the meeting, convened in line with the WAGP Treaty, provided an opportunity to review progress, address implementation challenges, and outline future strategies for the project, building on earlier discussions held in Accra in April 2025.
According to him, the pipeline has significantly improved energy access and strengthened cross-border collaboration, with Nigeria supplying over 68 per cent of gas delivered to Benin Republic, Togo, and Ghana. He added that the system recorded notable growth in 2025, reflecting increasing demand and operational efficiency.
Ekpo also highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen the legal and institutional framework of the project, including moves to amend the WAGP Act to align with evolving realities.
He called on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to enhance support for the project, particularly in facilitating the free movement of pipeline officials across member states.
In his remarks, ECOWAS Commission President, Dr. Umar Touray, pledged continued support and urged stakeholders to deepen collaboration to achieve the project’s objectives.
Other stakeholders, including the Director-General of the West African Pipeline Authority (WAPA), Madam Chafari Hanawa, and the Managing Director of the West African Gas Pipeline Company Limited (WAPCO), Mr. Abiodun Bodunrin, also stressed the need for sustained cooperation to consolidate gains.
The meeting, attended by energy ministers from Ghana, Togo, and Benin Republic, featured deliberations on the future of the pipeline and the signing of key resolutions and communiqués.
