In the face of ECOWAS sanctions that complicate economic relations between Benin and Niger, the new authorities in Niamey are seeking alternative options for the transportation of crude oil.
The Niger-Benin Export Pipeline Project (PENB) could be impacted by the consequences of the July 26 coup. In anticipation, the Nigerien junta is already exploring other avenues.
Deeply committed to the restoration of power to Mohamed Bazoum, Benin is one of the ECOWAS member countries fully endorsing the measures taken against Niger and the coup leaders. Heavy sanctions, coupled with the threat of military intervention, show Benin’s complete alignment.
According to Africa Intelligence, this firm stance of Benin against the junta is prompting the coup leaders to consider the future of the Niger-Benin Export Pipeline Project. “The Nigerien coup leaders are exploring solutions to export the crude oil produced by the China National Petroleum Corp (CNPC) via a different territory. All options, even the most inconceivable ones, are on the table,” the media outlet reported.
About the Pipeline Project: The Pipeline Project is a pipeline transport system designed to evacuate crude oil produced in Niger to the international market through Benin’s territory.
The infrastructure spans a total length of 1980 km, with 675 km of it in Benin. “The Benin section of the pipeline will form, along with the Nigerien section, an integrated pipeline system starting from Niger and traversing Benin’s territory to the coast of Benin in the Sèmè-Kpodji commune. This system will be used for the transportation of crude oil for its onward journey to international markets.”
