The United State’s interest in the Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline project was revealed by Nigeria’s Finance Minister, Wale Edun, who highlighted the potential for U.S. involvement in the initiative.
According to The Cable, Minister Edun disclosed this in a statement outlining the outcomes of the ministry’s bilateral engagements at the recently concluded 2025 Spring Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group in Washington, D.C.
Minister Edun emphasized that during a high-level meeting with Central Bank Governor Olayemi Cardoso and representatives from the U.S. State Department, the U.S. highlighted the importance of showcasing Nigeria’s economic reforms to attract investor confidence.
“Key areas of interest includes U.S. interest in investments in Nigeria’s natural gas sector particularly the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline given the country’s vast gas reserves,” he noted.
The Nigeria-Morroco gas pipeline project
The Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline project, one of Africa’s most ambitious infrastructure initiatives, spans 5,660 kilometers and aims to connect West Africa to Europe via Morocco.
Launched in December 2016 during King Mohammed VI’s visit to Nigeria, this $25 billion project will link Nigeria to Morocco through 13 countries.
Expected to enhance energy security for both coastal nations and the Alliance of Sahel States (ESA), the pipeline will become the world’s longest offshore gas pipeline.
In 2022, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPCL) and Morocco’s ONHYM signed an agreement to begin construction, with contributions from ECOWAS, SMH of Tanzania, and Petrosen of Senegal, aiming to increase gas supply to Europe.
Rival powers target Africa
The rivalry between the U.S. and China over Africa’s development is intensifying as both nations vie for involvement in critical projects across the continent.
From mining to infrastructure, both countries have steadily expanded their influence over the years, seeking investments that align with their national interests.
Earlier this year, the Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline project gained significant strategic backing from Jingye Group, a prominent Chinese steel producer.
Through its UK subsidiary, Jingye British Steel, the company plans to supply high-quality steel products essential for the pipeline’s construction.
Meanwhile, U.S. involvement in the Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline could be seen as part of a broader strategy to counterbalance China’s growing influence in Africa, particularly in the energy and infrastructure sectors.
While the U.S. may not be directly challenging China’s presence on the continent, its participation in such critical infrastructure projects reflects a strategic effort to maintain influence and ensure its role in Africa’s development amidst China’s rising dominance.
