The Federal Government of Nigeria has intensified talks on a $20 billion transcontinental gas pipeline intended to bring Nigeria’s abundant natural gas to European markets. Discussions, which took place in London, aim to boost energy security while creating long-term economic benefits for the country.

Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, described the proposed pipeline as a transformative project that could transport up to 30 billion cubic meters of gas annually. The pipeline is planned to move gas from southern Nigeria through Chad and Libya before connecting subsea to Sicily, Italy, and the wider European market.

Ekpo said the talks are both timely and historic, highlighting that Nigeria’s current petroleum laws and presidential directives have created an environment favorable for investment. He emphasized the need to utilize Nigeria’s gas resources effectively to benefit local communities.

Olalekan Ogunleye, Executive Vice President for Gas, Power, and New Energies at NNPC Limited, assured stakeholders that Nigeria’s policies are aligned to attract investors. He stressed that NNPC’s Gas Master Plan supports investment along the gas value chain and the company is focused on removing bottlenecks and creating profitable opportunities.

The project, led by Roger Tamraz of Netoil Inc., has drawn interest from global energy firms. Stakeholders say the pipeline could reduce gas flaring, generate jobs, and strengthen Nigeria’s position as a key gas supplier to Europe. While still in the early development phase, the initiative is seen as a potential game-changer for Nigeria’s role in the global energy market.