Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea have signed a strategic partnership agreement to build a major gas pipeline, aiming to boost energy security and economic development in West Africa.

The Agreement was reached on Thursday, August 14, after many years of negotiations to establish a critical energy infrastructure for Africa and give life to the prospect of exporting energy supplies to Europe. 

The pipeline, with a planned capacity of 30 billion cubic meters per year, will be constructed in phases to connect Nigeria’s abundant gas reserves with Equatorial Guinea’s energy infrastructure.

While the two signatory countries stand to benefit directly, the project is seen as a cornerstone for regional integration and a response to the continent’s growing energy needs. It also aligns with the Economic Community of West African States’ goal of diversifying gas supply routes.

Nigeria's president, Bola Tinubu, said the agreement is a significant step towards the region’s energy independence. It will not only stabilize energy supplies but also position Africa as a reliable gas supplier to the global market, especially Europe.

Equatorial Guinean President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo said the pipeline could be a “game-changer” for the continent, potentially boosting Africa’s influence on the world stage.

The project comes after years of negotiations between the two countries. Financial details of the project were not disclosed.