Algeria has officially launched construction on a new section of the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline, a landmark energy project expected to strengthen Africa’s role in global natural gas exports.
The project is designed to transport natural gas from Nigeria to Europe through Niger and Algeria, creating one of the continent’s most significant energy corridors.
The inauguration ceremony was led by Algeria’s Minister of Energy and Mines, Mohamed Arkab, alongside representatives from Nigeria and Niger. The officials marked the start of construction by overseeing the first welding operations on the pipeline.
According to project documents released during the event, the new Algerian segment will have a diameter of 48 inches and extend approximately 1,210 kilometres from the Niger-Algeria border to Aoulef in southern Algeria.
Once completed, the section will connect to Algeria’s existing gas transport network, which links directly to the Hassi R’Mel gas field. Hassi R’Mel is widely recognized as Africa’s largest natural gas field and serves as a strategic hub for the country’s energy exports.
From Hassi R’Mel, natural gas will be transported to export terminals located at Beni Saf on Algeria’s western Mediterranean coast and El Kala in the east near the Tunisian border.
The Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline is regarded as one of Africa’s most ambitious energy infrastructure projects.
The full pipeline will stretch approximately 4,327 kilometres, linking Nigeria’s oil and gas hub in Warri to Algeria’s extensive export network through neighbouring Niger.
Supporters of the project believe it will unlock significant economic opportunities for the participating countries by increasing natural gas exports, attracting investment, and enhancing regional energy cooperation.
The pipeline is also expected to strengthen Europe’s access to alternative gas supplies as countries seek to diversify their energy sources.
For Nigeria, the project offers an opportunity to monetize its vast natural gas reserves and expand its position in the international energy market.
Analysts say the successful completion of the pipeline could transform energy trade across West and North Africa while creating new revenue streams and infrastructure development opportunities along the route.
The launch of construction marks a major milestone for a project that has been discussed for years and is seen as a strategic step toward deeper economic integration and energy connectivity across the African continent.
