The International Gas Union (IGU) has identified regional cooperation, cross-border infrastructure development, and regulatory alignment as important factors in advancing the development of West Africa’s natural gas sector and supporting broader economic growth across the region.
The position was outlined by Mr. Akachukwu Nwokedi, IGU Regional Coordinator for Africa, during his opening keynote address at the 2026 West Africa Gas Summit (WAGS 2026) held in Accra, Ghana. Nwokedi delivered the address on behalf of IGU President Andrea Stegher.
Speaking to policymakers, regulators, industry leaders, and energy stakeholders, Nwokedi said the global energy landscape is undergoing significant changes driven by shifting geopolitical alliances, supply chain adjustments, and evolving energy security priorities. He noted that recent developments, including tensions in the Middle East and disruptions affecting key global shipping routes, have increased international attention on Africa’s gas resources as an alternative supply source.
According to Nwokedi, regional collaboration could help West African countries maximize the value of their gas reserves while improving resilience in a changing global energy market.
“No single country—regardless of its resource endowment—can independently unlock the full potential of its gas sector. But together, through coordinated policies, shared infrastructure, and integrated markets, the countries of West Africa can build the scale and resilience required to compete effectively. In this environment, energy security means more than ever for the region—it means economic sovereignty,” he said.
The IGU noted that natural gas continues to play a significant role in power generation, industrial development, manufacturing, and energy access. The organization stated that expanded utilization of domestic gas resources could support electricity supply, industrial activities, petrochemical development, and cleaner energy alternatives to traditional biomass use in some communities.
During the address, the IGU highlighted several areas requiring attention to strengthen the region’s gas value chain. These include investments in transportation, storage, and distribution infrastructure, as well as the advancement of regional projects such as the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP) and the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline.
The organization also emphasized the need for greater policy coordination among countries, transparent regulatory frameworks, and the deployment of emerging solutions such as small-scale liquefied natural gas (LNG) systems and virtual pipeline networks to improve access in underserved areas.
Nwokedi concluded by encouraging stakeholders to translate policy discussions into practical implementation measures aimed at enhancing energy security, supporting industrial development, and expanding economic opportunities across West Africa.
