Скачать или смотреть EUROPE IN PANIC As Niger Takes Tough Decision Decision on The Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline

EUROPE IN PANIC As Niger Takes Tough Decision Decision on The Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline

Niger has taken steps to address the threat of a military attack following the coup. Nigeria, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have played a role in supporting the West's efforts to reverse the coup in Niger. ECOWAS, presided over by Nigeria's president, issued an ultimatum to Niger, demanding the reversal of the coup or facing military intervention. It is noteworthy that Nigeria, an African country, was involved in threatening another African country.

In response, Niger has decided to impose consequences not only on Nigeria but also on Europe, aiming to set an example of its capabilities. Niger has recently announced a complete ban on the export of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), commonly known as cooking gas, to all countries, including Nigeria. Additionally, Niger made it clear that if Nigeria and Europe do not leave Niger alone, they will terminate the trans-Saharan gas pipeline, which is of great importance to Europe.

What does this warning mean, and how significant is the trans-Saharan gas pipeline for Europe?

The government of Niger officially declared the immediate suspension of all LPG exports, emphasizing the need to prioritize domestic production to meet the country's own demands. They explained that if there is a surplus, businesses can apply for authorization to resume exports. It is important to note that Niger primarily exports gas to its neighboring country, Nigeria, and the two nations signed a memorandum of understanding for petroleum product importation in 2020.

In a formal ceremony attended by the respective Ministers of State for Petroleum, Tim Silva representing Nigeria and Fumak Coyado representing the Niger Republic, an agreement was signed. Silva expressed his optimism, stating that this agreement is a significant step forward. Niger has surplus petroleum products that need to be exported, and Nigeria is the ideal market for these products. It was anticipated that this partnership would be mutually beneficial.

However, as tensions between Nigeria and Niger escalated, Nigeria's stance began to go against the continuation of LPG supply from Niger. This has created a challenging situation for Nigeria, as it relies heavily on LPG, which is essential for cooking, heating, and fueling vehicles. Notably, the price of LPG in Nigeria has surged to an unprecedented level of 1,000 Nigerian Naira per kilogram, up from its previous price of 750 Naira. The Nigerian Association of LPG Marketers had previously warned of potential price increases due to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates and international market activities.