Benkhadra, speaking on behalf of ONHYM alongside its partner Nigerian Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) at the ministerial meeting, commended the commitment of ECOWAS and its member countries for the remarkable coordination of the IGA and HGA text review process, as well as all the meetings held in Marrakech, Rabat, Abidjan and Lagos.
“We gather today to approve the IGA and HGA at ministerial level, which should mark a decisive step towards its official signature,” she said, highlighting that these agreements shall create an environment conducive to the successful implementation of the project and mark a significant step towards regional sovereignty.
She added that these agreements represent “our shared aspiration to strengthen regional integration and energy cooperation, while sharing the vision of a more united and prosperous Africa.”
Benkhadra also recalled that the African Atlantic Pipeline project, which resulted from a shared vision between HM King Mohammed VI and Nigeria’s Presidents and a mutual commitment between Morocco and Nigeria, aims to boost collective economic growth and develop the West Africa region.
“By accelerating electrification, promoting energy self-sufficiency, creating wealth and jobs, and developing industrial sectors, this project can profoundly improve living conditions and generate economic opportunities throughout the region,” she said.
She estimated that beyond ensuring energy security and autonomy in West Africa, the project embodies an initiative deeply rooted in Africa, with the ambition of fostering sustainable growth and positive transformations in the region.
Benkhadra also noted that the pipeline’s construction and exploitation should attract foreign investments, a substantial part of which will be dedicated to local businesses.
Internationally, the pipeline is of strategic importance as it offers Europe a viable alternative to diversify its sources of gas supply, and further secure its supply, she added, noting that with a potential export of 15 billion m3 per year, the pipeline will help strengthen Europe’s energy security.
Ever since its launch in 2017, the African Atlantic Pipeline project, which stems from the enlightened vision of HM King Mohammed VI and Nigeria’s Presidents, has made significant progress.
The detailed engineering studies carried out by world-renowned providers were completed in March 2024, representing significant progress towards the completion of this project, Benkhadra recalled, noting that the concept is robust and the macroeconomic data demonstrate the project’s profitability and competitiveness.
Currently, survey studies for the northern segment are underway, while those for the southern segment will begin shortly, she added, noting that contracts for environmental and social impact assessments (SIA) have been awarded and fieldwork has already begun.
Benkhadra said that the studies will help refine the implementation plan, integrating all environmental and social aspects to ensure compliance with the highest standards.
