Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea have officially signed a joint communiqué to kickstart the implementation of the Gulf of Guinea Gas Pipeline (GOGGP) Project, a major regional infrastructure aimed at boosting economic growth, energy security, and industrial development.

The agreement was signed in Abuja by Nigeria’s Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Mr. Ekperikpe Ekpo, and Equatorial Guinea’s Minister of Hydrocarbons and Mining Development, H.E. Antonio Oburu Ondo.

“This treaty is not just a political commitment but a national obligation to the people and future generations,” Ekpo said, emphasizing that the project represents “a shared economic vision and a bond of trust” between both countries.

As part of the roadmap, both countries will establish a Joint Steering Committee and a Sub-Committee on Gas Supply. The committees will include representatives from Nigeria’s Ministry of Petroleum Resources, NNPC Ltd, the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Equatorial Guinea’s Ministry of Hydrocarbons and SONAGAS, alongside project developers Gas Invest Limited and Amitee Global.

Key steps outlined include the finalization of the International Project Agreement (IPA), ratification and UN deposit of all institutional documents, and the establishment of inter-institutional and sub-committees.

Ekpo underscored the importance of “legality, mutual respect, and transparency,” urging all parties to ensure compliance with constitutional procedures throughout the implementation phase.

In his remarks, Equatorial Guinea’s Minister Antonio Ondo welcomed the progress made, adding, “The project will strengthen bilateral relations and bring significant energy and economic benefits to both nations.”

He also called on the project’s overseeing committees to work “diligently, transparently, and with utmost integrity to meet the set deadlines.”

The GOGGP Treaty marks a strategic milestone in regional energy cooperation and is expected to drive long-term development for both West African nations.