Ijaw Council Warns of Economic Threat from Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline Project

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has issued a fresh warning, stating that the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline Project continues to pose a significant threat to Nigeria’s economic future. In a statement attributed to Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri, President of the IYC, the council emphasized that its position on the controversial pipeline remains unchanged, asserting that the greatest danger to Nigeria’s economic survival still lies ahead due to the ongoing implementation of the project.

According to Lokpobiri, the IYC remains deeply concerned about the long-term consequences of the pipeline project, which seeks to transport Nigerian natural gas from the Niger Delta through the West African coastline to Morocco and, ultimately, to Europe. The council has long argued that the project prioritizes external interests over national development and disregards the pressing economic needs of Nigeria’s oil-producing regions, particularly the Niger Delta.

The IYC president stated that while the federal government continues to champion the project as a means of enhancing regional integration and increasing foreign revenue, local stakeholders have been largely ignored in the decision-making process. He reiterated that the Ijaw people and other communities in the Niger Delta are the rightful custodians of the region’s natural resources and should be central in discussions about the use and distribution of those resources.

Lokpobiri expressed serious doubts about the economic viability of the pipeline, suggesting that the multi-billion-dollar project could become a liability rather than an asset. He noted that the long and complex route of the pipeline, which will pass through several countries with political and security challenges, could compromise the reliability and safety of gas transport. He added that the significant capital investment required for the project could instead be directed toward local infrastructure, energy development, and community empowerment initiatives that would have a more direct impact on Nigeria’s economic stability.

In his statement, Lokpobiri pointed out that the IYC is not opposed to regional cooperation or economic partnerships. However, he stressed that such projects must be based on equitable terms that reflect the interests of host communities. He warned that continued disregard for these communities could lead to increased unrest and resistance, especially if they perceive the project as another form of exploitation of their resources without tangible benefits.

The IYC also questioned the timing and urgency of the pipeline project, arguing that Nigeria should be focusing on internal energy needs and industrial development rather than exporting raw gas. Lokpobiri emphasized the importance of processing natural gas domestically to add value and create jobs, rather than merely serving as a supplier of raw materials to foreign markets.

He further criticized what he described as a lack of transparency and public consultation surrounding the project. According to him, details about the funding structure, environmental impact assessments, and community engagement strategies remain unclear. The IYC believes that without full disclosure and accountability, the project risks becoming another poorly-managed venture that burdens future generations.

Lokpobiri reiterated the IYC’s commitment to defending the rights and interests of the Niger Delta people. He called on the federal government to suspend further actions on the pipeline until comprehensive consultations are conducted with all affected communities. He also urged international partners involved in the project to respect local concerns and ensure that any cooperation aligns with Nigeria’s long-term economic and social goals.

The Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline Project was first announced in 2016 as a strategic initiative between the two nations to boost energy exports to Europe and improve gas access across West Africa. Despite political backing at the highest levels, the project has faced mounting criticism over its scale, cost, and implications for domestic resource control.

As construction and planning move forward, opposition from groups like the IYC underscores the growing tension between national infrastructure ambitions and regional advocacy for local benefit and equity. Lokpobiri’s latest remarks suggest that the debate over the pipeline is far from over and may continue to intensify in the coming months.