By Chioma Favour
Abuja, Nigeria — The Federal Government of Nigeria and the Kingdom of Morocco have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in critical sectors including energy, agriculture, trade and regional economic integration.
This followed a telephone conversation held on Friday between Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, both ministers described the discussions as warm and productive, reaffirming the longstanding friendship between both countries and their determination to deepen cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
A key aspect of the talks focused on the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline, also known as the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline, a major energy infrastructure project expected to enhance regional energy security and economic integration across West Africa.
The ministers noted that the project is being driven through a partnership between Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and Morocco’s National Office of Hydrocarbons and Mines.
They revealed 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 King Mohammed VI in the last quarter of 2026.
Beyond energy cooperation, both countries also explored opportunities in fertiliser production and distribution to strengthen food security across Africa.
Nigeria further indicated interest in hosting the second session of the Nigeria-Morocco Bilateral Joint Commission aimed at revitalising agreements signed during former President Muhammadu Buhari’s 2018 visit to Morocco.
The two ministers also stressed the need to revive the Nigeria-Morocco Business Council to promote stronger economic cooperation and maximise opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement and the double taxation treaty between both countries.
Minister Odumegwu-Ojukwu also appreciated the invitation extended by the Moroccan government for an official visit to Morocco, noting that such engagement would further strengthen diplomatic and economic relations between both nations.
