Niamey, Niger – Niger is revisiting plans to export crude oil through a pipeline stretching from Chad to Cameroon. This decision comes amidst rising tensions with Benin, the country through which Niger recently inaugurated a separate export pipeline.
During a cabinet meeting on June 24th, the Nigerien government announced the formation of a committee tasked with “reactivating the work” necessary to complete the Chad-Cameroon pipeline, which spans 1,080 kilometers. Local media reports suggest this shift is driven by security concerns in the Lake Chad region, previously cited by Niger as a reason for abandoning the project in 2014. Boko Haram’s extremist activities were a major deterrent at the time.
Niger had opted for a different route in November 2023, with the inauguration of a 2,000-kilometer pipeline connecting its Agadem oil fields directly to Benin’s port of Seme. However, recent political tensions between the two nations have cast doubt on the viability of this infrastructure. The situation escalated after regional powers, including Benin, cut ties with Niger following a military coup led by General Tiani. Further accusations of “hostage-taking” by Niger against Benin have only worsened the rift.
This latest move by Niger could significantly benefit Cameroon and Chad. The previous abandonment of the Chad-Cameroon pipeline cost Cameroon billions of CFA francs in lost transit fees. If Niger successfully reactivates the project, these lost revenues could be recovered.
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