Niger has commissioned a massive pipeline to carry crude oil to neighbouring Benin.
According to a November 1 report by the county’s state broadcaster, the 2,000-kilometre-long pipeline enables Niger to export its crude oil to the international market for the first time. The West African country will ship out the oil via Benin’s Seme Port.
Niger’s government said 6 billion U.S. dollars has been invested in the project, including 4 billion to develop the oil fields and 2.3 billion for the construction of the pipeline.
The cash injection will increase oil production to 110,000 barrels daily, aiming to hit 200,000 barrels per day by 2026.
Niger Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine said revenue made from the new pipeline in the country would be used to ensure the sovereignty and development.
However, the border between Niger and Benin remains closed following heavy sanctions imposed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The sanctions followed a July 26 military coup that overthrew president Mohamed Bazoum.
Aside from ECOWAS sanctions, many Western countries cut off aid to Niger. And the World Bank warns the sanctions will negatively impact Niger’s GDP if they continue.
