Algeria has accelerated efforts to mend its diplomatic relationship with Niger, a move widely seen as an attempt to revive its stalled trans-Saharan gas pipeline project and counter the growing momentum of the Morocco–Nigeria gas pipeline initiative.
The rapprochement came after a prolonged period of tension between Algiers and Niamey, which had stalled cooperation on regional energy infrastructure. Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune announced on February 17 the imminent launch of the trans-Saharan gas pipeline through Niger, following high-level talks with Nigerien President Abdourahamane Tchiani in Algiers. The two leaders emphasized a renewed focus on collaboration in energy, security, and education, signaling a diplomatic reset.
“The project to complete the trans-Saharan pipeline through Nigerien territory will commence after the holy month of Ramadan,” Tebboune said, adding that Algeria’s state energy company Sonatrach would lead the pipeline’s construction. The announcement reflects Algeria’s urgency to advance its energy agenda after the rift with Niger had delayed progress for nearly a year.
Observers note that Algeria’s decision is partly driven by concern over Morocco’s strategic advance in regional energy projects. The Morocco–Nigeria gas pipeline, which recently reached critical phases in engineering and environmental studies, is poised to connect over ten West African countries, supplying nearly 400 million people and boosting regional industrial development. Morocco’s National Office of Hydrocarbons and Mines (ONHYM) and Nigeria’s NNPC have emphasized that the project embodies the strategic vision of King Mohammed VI and a broader agenda of African integration.
Algeria has long regarded Morocco as its regional rival. Military Chief General Saïd Chengriha has referred to Morocco as Algeria’s “classic enemy,” highlighting the strategic competition between the two nations in West and North Africa. Analysts say that by restoring ties with Niger, Algeria is attempting to regain lost ground and ensure that its trans-Saharan pipeline does not fall behind Morocco’s ambitious project.
The diplomatic thaw with Niger follows a tense period in 2025, triggered by cross-border disputes involving Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, which had led to ambassadorial recalls and delayed infrastructure projects. With the new agreements, Algeria appears intent on accelerating its gas project to prevent Morocco from establishing a leading role in regional energy integration.
Morocco, meanwhile, continues to advance the Nigeria–Morocco pipeline with strong political and institutional backing. Amina Benkhadra, Director General of ONHYM, recently highlighted the progress made in preparatory studies and expressed confidence that the next phases will proceed rapidly following the final investment decision. Moroccan officials underscore that the pipeline is not only a regional energy project but also a lever for industrial development and African economic integration.
With Algeria seeking to repair relations and resume its trans-Saharan ambitions, the race for regional energy dominance is intensifying, setting the stage for a new phase of competition between Algiers and Rabat over the future of West Africa’s gas infrastructure.
