Senegal and Nigeria have decided to strengthen their cooperation in the energy sector following a working visit to Abuja by Senegalese officials.
Senegal’s Minister of Energy, Birame Soulèye Diop, accompanied by officials from Petrosen, met with the Nigerian Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, and leaders of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation.
Discussions focused on refining, gas valorisation, energy policy development and intra-African energy trade.
Both countries committed to strengthening cooperation between their national oil companies, sharing expertise and supporting the development of strategic
projects throughout the energy value chain.
The African Energy Chamber (AEC) welcomed this initiative, considering it an example of a partnership capable of stimulating investment, infrastructure, and energy security on the continent.
“When African countries collaborate by sharing knowledge and strengthening institutions, Africa creates an environment conducive to industrialisation and growth,” AEC executive chairman NJ Ayuk said.
For Senegal, this partnership could accelerate the development of its oil and gas projects, including the Sangomar field and the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG project, as well as the Yakaar-Teranga offshore project.
Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer, aims to maintain high production levels while expanding its refining capacity and gas projects, including the expansion of the Dangote refinery and the flare gas access programme.
This cooperation illustrates a growing trend toward prioritising integration and partnership among African countries in the energy sector, seen as essential for attracting investment, developing infrastructure and strengthening long-term energy security on the continent.
TE/fss/jn/APA