WAPCo to Commence Pipeline Maintenance Exercise Starting November 25
The West African Gas Pipeline Company Limited (WAPCo) has announced plans to conduct a comprehensive cleaning and inspection of its pipeline infrastructure starting Monday, November 25, 2024.
This exercise is part of WAPCo’s regular maintenance schedule and aims to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP).
The initiative, which aligns with global industry best practices, is also a regulatory requirement to uphold the pipeline’s operational integrity across the sub-region.
Two-Phase Inspection Plan
In a statement, WAPCo detailed that the inspection would occur in two phases, covering the pipeline’s stretch from Itoki in Ogun State, Nigeria, to Takoradi in Ghana’s Western Region.
The first phase, set to last 10 days, will focus on the onshore segment of the pipeline within Nigeria. WAPCo has assured stakeholders that this phase will not significantly disrupt gas transportation services, citing extensive consultations ahead of the exercise.
Scheduled to begin in January 2025, the second phase will involve the offshore section of the pipeline, spanning from Badagry in Lagos State, Nigeria, to Takoradi, Ghana. This phase will temporarily suspend reverse gas flow from Ghana’s Western Region to Tema and necessitate the shutdown of key facilities in Tema (Ghana), Lomé (Togo), and Cotonou (Benin).
Additionally, during the second phase, WAPCo will replace sub-sea valves at strategic locations to enhance operational safety.
Commitment to Stakeholders
WAPCo noted that the pipeline’s last major inspection occurred in January 2020 as part of its mandatory five-year maintenance cycle.
The company emphasised its commitment to engaging stakeholders throughout the process to ensure smooth execution and mitigate disruptions.
Role of the WAGP
WAPCo operates the West African Gas Pipeline, a critical infrastructure for transporting natural gas from Nigeria to Benin, Togo, and Ghana.
The pipeline plays a significant role in promoting sustainable energy development and regional cooperation across West Africa.
The maintenance exercise reflects WAPCo’s dedication to maintaining its infrastructure’s safety and operational efficiency to continue meeting energy needs in the sub-region.
