The West African Gas Pipeline Company Limited (WAPCO) has announced the commencement of a planned cleaning and inspection exercise for the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP).

This critical maintenance activity is scheduled to begin on Monday, November 25, 2024, and represents a significant step in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the regional gas infrastructure.

In a press release issued by WAPCO, the company outlined the scope and timeline of the exercise, emphasizing its alignment with industry best practices and regulatory requirements.

“The comprehensive cleaning and inspection exercise is a key maintenance and regulatory requirement to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the pipeline. “
The exercise aligns with industry best practices, and will cover the entire pipeline infrastructure, from Itoki in Ogun State in Nigeria to Takoradi in the Western Region of Ghana.”
West African Gas Pipeline Company Limited (WAPCO)

The cleaning and inspection of the WAGP is a periodic requirement aimed at maintaining the structural integrity of the pipeline. It is also part of WAPCO’s commitment to the safe and reliable operation of the regional gas infrastructure, which plays a crucial role in delivering cleaner energy solutions across Nigeria, Benin, Togo, and Ghana.

“The exercise is an integral part of our efforts to uphold the highest safety and operational standards while ensuring the pipeline continues to serve the energy needs of the West African region effectively,” the release stated.

Phase One: Onshore Cleaning and Inspection in Nigeria

The first phase of the operation, scheduled to begin on November 25, 2024, focuses on the onshore segment of the pipeline located in Nigeria.

Starting from Itoki in Ogun State, this segment represents the foundation of the WAGP’s functionality.

“This first phase is scheduled to last for 10 days,” WAPCO announced, with minimal disruption anticipated to gas transportation services.

“WAPCO has engaged relevant stakeholders ahead of this exercise and does not anticipate any major disruption to gas transportation services to customers.”
West African Gas Pipeline Company Limited (WAPCO)

This segment’s inspection will involve the use of advanced cleaning and diagnostic tools to remove debris and identify any signs of corrosion, leaks, or structural wear.

Such measures are crucial in maintaining the pipeline’s efficiency and in averting any risks associated with natural gas transmission.

Phase Two: Offshore Inspection and Subsea Valve Replacements

The second phase of the maintenance project is slated for January 2025 and will focus on the offshore portion of the pipeline.

“This involves the cleaning and inspection of the main section of the pipeline, which is offshore, stretching from Badagry, in the Lagos State, Nigeria to Takoradi, in the Western Region of Ghana.”
West African Gas Pipeline Company Limited (WAPCO)

During this phase, WAPCO noted that it will temporarily suspend reverse gas flow transportation from the Western Region of Ghana to Tema, Ghana.

“Key facilities in Tema (Ghana), Lomé (Togo), and Cotonou (Benin) will also undergo shutdowns to facilitate safe operations.”
West African Gas Pipeline Company Limited (WAPCO)

A key component of this phase will be the replacement of critical subsea valves at strategic locations along the pipeline. These replacements are aimed at enhancing operational safety and ensuring long-term reliability.

WAPCO emphasized that the subsea valve replacements are a proactive measure to safeguard the pipeline from potential issues, reflecting the company’s commitment to the highest safety standards.

The press release also highlighted that this inspection is conducted every five years, with the last major exercise completed in January 2020.

The WAGP serves as a vital regional infrastructure, connecting natural gas resources in Nigeria to customers across Benin, Togo, and Ghana. Its bi-directional system allows for gas supply from both east (Nigeria) and west (Ghana), underscoring its role in fostering regional energy security and cooperation.

The pipeline not only provides cleaner and more efficient energy options but also contributes to the economic development of the region by supporting industrial activities and reducing dependence on less environmentally friendly energy sources.

As the exercise gets underway, WAPCO encouraged customers and stakeholders to stay informed through its regular updates and to cooperate with the measures put in place to facilitate the project’s success.