Tinubu, Mbasogo signs agreement on gas pipeline for Gulf of Guinea 

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On Wednesday, President Bola Tinubu and President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea signed an agreement regarding the Gulf of Guinea Pipeline Project.

In a statement on Thursday, Tinubu’s spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, emphasised that the agreement signed in Malabo strengthens the partnership for mutual development.

The agreement encompasses legislative and regulatory measures for the pipeline’s establishment and operation, the transit of natural gas, ownership of the pipeline, and other general principles.

During his three-day official visit to Equatorial Guinea, President Tinubu stated that the agreement’s signing would create new opportunities for gas exploration and employment.

He also noted that, in a private meeting before the signing, the two leaders discussed employment creation, food security, multilateral relations, and mechanisms for conflict resolution across the continent.

“Concerning Africa, conflicts and conflict resolution were discussed. We discussed various areas of conflict and what we can do to promote peace. We talked about the promotion of peace and stability in our countries and growth and prosperity on our continent. 

“In the same way that Europe and America have kept themselves and found a solution for their conflicts, we have to look at both inadequate capital, industrialization efforts, research and development programmes, and enlighten our people, navigate our way through problems. Instead of the crisis and conflicts that we see in the Republic of Congo, and others, we have to look inwards to solve problems ourselves,’’ the President said. 

Additionally, President Tinubu stated that his discussion with the President of Equatorial Guinea addressed security challenges, the African Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA), and food security.

Meanwhile, Equatorial Guinea’s President noted that the longstanding bilateral relations with Nigeria have been fruitful, stressing the importance of strengthening cooperation in key areas.

Mr. Mbasogo highlighted the importance of Africa securing a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, emphasizing that this is crucial for the continent’s development. He confirmed that Equatorial Guinea is committed to working with Nigeria to achieve this goal.

He further said the signing of the agreement is a strategic step toward Africa’s development.

The agreement was signed by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, and Equatorial Guinea’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Simeon Oyono Esono.

Also, present at the signing were the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Lateef Fagbemi; Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru Abubakar; Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; Minister of State, Petroleum, Gas, Ekperikpe Ekpo; and Minister of Youth Development, Dr Jamila Ibrahim-Biu.