OPEC chief backs Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline,linking Nigeria, Niger and Algeria
…Says project will boost energy security..
By: Zagazola Makama
The Secretary General of the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Mr Haitham Al-Ghais, has described the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline (TSGP), linking Nigeria, Niger and Algeria, as an “excellent project” capable of strengthening energy security in Europe and beyond.
Al-Ghais made the remarks in an interview with Algerian television channel, Ennahar, where he highlighted the strategic importance of the long-planned gas infrastructure project to the energy sector and the wider economies of the three participating countries.
The OPEC Secretary General said the pipeline was consistent with efforts to strengthen the security and reliability of global energy supplies, particularly at a time when energy security remains a major concern for consuming countries.
He said the project would not only facilitate the movement of Nigerian natural gas towards Algeria and onward to European markets but could also generate significant economic opportunities along its route.
According to him, the development of the pipeline could create employment opportunities for young people in Nigeria, Niger and Algeria while supporting economic activity in communities and regions connected to the project.
Al-Ghais further commended Algeria’s role in advancing the initiative, describing the country’s efforts as part of a broader drive to promote regional and continental integration through strategic energy infrastructure.
He said the cooperation among Nigeria, Niger and Algeria demonstrated how economic diplomacy could be deployed to advance shared interests in Africa, particularly through projects capable of connecting energy-producing countries with international markets.
The Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline is envisaged as a major regional gas infrastructure project designed to transport natural gas from Nigeria through Niger to Algeria, from where it could access existing pipeline networks linking North Africa with European markets.
Beyond its potential contribution to gas supply, the project has been associated with wider economic objectives, including infrastructure development, job creation, increased investment and stronger economic cooperation among the participating countries.
Al-Ghais expressed optimism that the project would progress to successful completion, saying its timely delivery would enable Nigeria, Niger and Algeria to begin benefiting from its expected economic and social opportunities.
He also expressed his best wishes for the swift success of the initiative, stressing the importance of translating the long-standing plans into tangible benefits for the countries and their populations.
The OPEC chief’s comments come as African energy-producing countries continue to explore ways of expanding gas infrastructure and securing new markets, while positioning natural gas as an important component of the continent’s energy and economic development strategy.
For Nigeria, the project could provide an additional avenue for monetising the country’s substantial natural gas resources, while deepening its energy partnership with Algeria and strengthening regional economic cooperation.
The project also highlights the growing importance of cross-border energy infrastructure in Africa, where inadequate transportation networks and limited investment have historically constrained the ability of resource-rich countries to fully exploit their energy potential.
