Energy ministers from across West Africa have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening regional energy integration through the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP), following a high-level meeting held in Abuja.

The gathering, organised by the Committee of Ministers overseeing the project, brought together representatives from Nigeria, Benin, Togo, and Ghana, alongside key stakeholders including the Economic Community of West African States, the West African Gas Pipeline Authority, and the West African Gas Pipeline Company Limited.

Speaking at the meeting, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, reaffirmed the country’s dedication to ensuring the long-term viability and expansion of the pipeline network.

He highlighted the project’s impact since inception, noting that over 613 million MMBtu of natural gas has been transported through the pipeline, with Nigeria contributing more than 68 percent of the total supply to neighbouring countries.

Also addressing stakeholders, Olalekan Ogunleye, Executive Vice President for Gas, Power and New Energy at NNPC Limited, emphasised the company’s role in sustaining Nigeria’s gas export obligations and advancing regional energy cooperation.

Recent data shows that gas throughput on the pipeline rose to approximately 80 million MMBtu in 2025, representing a 22 percent increase compared to previous years.

Discussions are also underway to boost pipeline capacity utilisation by up to 45 percent in 2026, a move aimed at strengthening the commercial viability of the regional gas market.

The renewed commitment by stakeholders underscores the strategic importance of the WAGP in driving energy security, economic growth, and cross-border collaboration across West Africa.