President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria and President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea signed a landmark agreement on Wednesday, aimed at establishing a Gulf of Guinea gas pipeline. The ceremony took place in Malabo, the capital of Equatorial Guinea, during President Tinubu’s official visit to the country.
The newly signed Gulf of Guinea Pipeline Project agreement outlines key aspects of the partnership, including legislative and regulatory frameworks for the pipeline’s establishment, operational guidelines, and natural gas transit provisions. The deal also addresses ownership structures and overarching principles for the joint project.
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President Tinubu emphasized that the agreement would unlock new opportunities in the region, particularly in the areas of gas exploration and job creation. He remarked, “This agreement is a gateway to further exploration and will boost employment in both nations.”
In a private meeting before the signing, both leaders also discussed broader topics, such as conflict resolution in Africa, food security, and multilateral cooperation. Reflecting on the conversation, President Tinubu stated, “We must look within for solutions to our challenges. Just as Europe and America have resolved their conflicts, Africa must prioritize peace, industrialization, and the enlightenment of our people.”
Addressing the continent’s security concerns, the African Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA), and food security, Tinubu reiterated the importance of intra-African collaboration to solve shared problems.
President Mbasogo hailed Nigeria as a crucial ally, emphasizing the long-standing and rewarding bilateral relationship between the two nations. He also reaffirmed Equatorial Guinea’s commitment to working with Nigeria to achieve Africa’s goal of securing a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. Mbasogo described the gas pipeline project as “strategic for Africa’s development.”
Among those present at the signing were top Nigerian government officials, including Foreign Affairs Minister Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, Justice Minister Chief Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, and Petroleum Minister of State Ekperikpe Ekpo. Representing Equatorial Guinea was their Minister of Foreign Affairs, Simeon Oyono Esono.
This agreement signals a growing partnership between the two nations and highlights Africa’s commitment to developing its resources for mutual prosperity.