Nigeria’s Minister of State for Petroleum and Gas, Ekperikpe Ekpo, said the government has stepped up high-level discussions on a $20 billion transcontinental gas pipeline project aimed at transporting Nigeria’s vast natural gas resources to European markets.
According to a ministerial statement, the talks—held in London—are expected to enhance energy security and deliver long-term economic value for Nigeria. The proposed pipeline, described as a strategic gas corridor, is designed to carry up to 30 billion cubic metres of gas annually from southern Nigeria’s reserves through Chad and Libya, before extending offshore to Sicily and mainland Italy, and onward to the broader European market.
Ekpo, who joined senior oil and gas officials during the London discussions, described the engagement as timely and historic, noting that Nigeria is positioning itself to attract investment into its gas sector.
He stressed that Nigeria is ready to welcome investors to tap into its natural gas resources. “We must be strategic in harnessing our resources. As long as we have these reserves, we must use them to improve the lives of people in the region,” Ekpo said, adding that with adequate financing, he sees no obstacles to delivering the project.
Speaking at the event, Olalekan Ogunleye, Executive Vice President for Gas, Power and New Energy at Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, reaffirmed policy alignment and Nigeria’s readiness to attract investment, emphasizing the company’s focus on maximizing value across the gas value chain.
“NNPCL, as Nigeria’s national oil company, has a clear gas master plan, and the president’s initiatives are aimed at stimulating investment across the entire value chain. Our strategy is fully aligned with the president’s agenda. We are focused on creating investment opportunities, removing bottlenecks, and partnering with credible investors. In short, NNPCL is ready for business,” he said.
Roger Tamraz, founder and CEO of Netoil Inc., which is leading the project, described the pipeline as commercially viable and strategically important for Europe’s energy future, citing strong market demand and available financing structures.
Allan Bolo, CEO of Unicorn, highlighted the project’s potential to reduce gas flaring and position Nigeria as a key gas supplier to Europe. Meanwhile, Henry Erimudafe, project manager at Netoil, described it as a “win-win strategic opportunity” capable of generating jobs, investment, and long-term value.
A report by The Punch noted that the pipeline—still in its early development stages—is being implemented by a consortium of leading global companies and will undergo extensive technical, commercial, and regulatory processes.
Stakeholders expressed optimism that the project could redefine Nigeria’s role in global energy markets and strengthen its energy ties with Europe.