By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, H.E. Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, on Friday, 8 May 2026, held a telephone conversation with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates of the Kingdom of Morocco, H.E. Mr. Nasser Bourita, during which both countries reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and expanding cooperation in key sectors of mutual interest.
The discussion, described as cordial and constructive, highlighted the enduring friendship between Nigeria and Morocco, with both Ministers expressing readiness to further deepen collaboration in strategic areas that support regional development and economic growth.
Central to the conversation was the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline (NMGP), also referred to as the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline (AAGP), a landmark energy initiative expected to boost regional energy security and economic integration across West Africa. The Ministers acknowledged the strong partnership driving the project between the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) and Morocco’s National Office of Hydrocarbons and Mines (ONHYM).
They noted that following the completion of preliminary technical studies, an Intergovernmental Agreement for the project is expected to be signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and His Majesty King Mohammed VI in the final quarter of 2026.
The two sides also explored opportunities for enhanced collaboration in fertiliser production and distribution, recognising the importance of the sector in strengthening food security and agricultural productivity across the African continent.
On the diplomatic front, Nigeria indicated its willingness to host the second session of the Nigeria-Morocco Bilateral Joint Commission, aimed at reinvigorating bilateral agreements reached during former President Muhammadu Buhari’s official visit to Morocco in June 2018.
Both Ministers further underscored the need to revive the Nigeria-Morocco Business Council as a platform for advancing trade, investment, and private-sector partnerships, particularly within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the existing agreement on avoidance of double taxation between both countries.
Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu also expressed appreciation for the invitation extended by Minister Bourita for an official visit to Morocco at a mutually convenient date.
The proposed visit is expected to further consolidate bilateral relations and reinforce the shared vision of Nigeria and Morocco as partners in advancing Africa’s development and prosperity.
