The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has signed an agreement supporting the proposed Nigeria–Morocco Atlantic Gas Pipeline, marking a significant step forward for one of Africa’s largest cross-border energy infrastructure projects.
The agreement was signed during an ECOWAS meeting and formalises regional backing for the pipeline, which is expected to transport Nigerian natural gas through several West African countries before reaching Morocco and connecting with European gas markets. The regional bloc said the project would strengthen energy security, deepen economic integration and support sustainable development across West Africa.
The proposed pipeline is expected to span more than 6,000 kilometres, making it one of the world’s longest offshore gas pipelines. It will pass through a number of West African coastal states before reaching Morocco, where it is planned to link with existing gas infrastructure connecting North Africa to Europe.
ECOWAS officials said the agreement reflects the bloc’s commitment to improving regional energy cooperation, expanding access to electricity and encouraging industrial development. They added that the project could stimulate investment, create jobs and improve energy supplies for participating countries along the route.
The pipeline, jointly promoted by the governments of Nigeria and Morocco, is intended to monetise Nigeria’s vast natural gas reserves while helping neighbouring countries develop gas fired power generation and industrial capacity. Supporters also see the project as a means of diversifying Europe’s energy supply sources.
Despite the regional endorsement, the project still faces significant financing, engineering and regulatory challenges. Analysts say construction will require billions of dollars in investment and close cooperation among governments, financial institutions and private sector partners over several years.
Energy experts said the ECOWAS agreement represents an important milestone that could help attract international investors by demonstrating political commitment to the project. If completed, the pipeline would become one of Africa’s most ambitious energy initiatives and a key component of regional economic integration.
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