The West Africa Gas Pipeline Company Limited (WAPCo) is currently engaged in crucial maintenance operations on the 569-kilometer gas pipeline that traverses from Nigeria, through Tema, and finally to Takoradi in Ghana. This essential maintenance work, which began on February 5, 2025, with a temporary shutdown of gas transmission, is slated for completion on March 2, 2025, with approximately 70% of the work already accomplished. The maintenance primarily focuses on cleaning and meticulous inspections of the pipeline to ensure its continued integrity and operational efficiency. A key component of this process involves the use of a Pipeline Inspection Gauge (PIG), a device launched into the pipeline to perform cleaning and gather crucial data on the pipeline’s internal condition.
The maintenance procedures, as emphasized by WAPCo officials, adhere to strict regulatory guidelines that mandate “pigging” operations every five years. This process, which involves launching the PIG through the pipeline, is vital for preserving the structural integrity of the pipeline and ensuring its long-term functionality. As of the latest update, three PIGs have successfully traversed the pipeline from Tema to Takoradi, with a fourth en route and expected to arrive shortly. Following the fourth PIG, the final and most sophisticated PIG, referred to as the “intelligent PIG,” will be launched to complete the data collection process. This intelligent PIG plays a critical role in gathering comprehensive data on the pipeline’s internal state, providing valuable insights into its overall condition.
Contrary to some media reports, Ghana continues to receive gas from Nigeria during this maintenance period. The gas flow, though at a reduced capacity, is essential for facilitating the movement of the PIGs through the pipeline. This gas, delivered at Takoradi, is being utilized for power generation by the Volta River Authority (VRA), ensuring continued power supply despite the ongoing maintenance activities. The maintenance period is also being utilized for critical subsea valve replacements at Tema and Cotonou, further enhancing the pipeline’s operational reliability.
The subsea valve replacement operation, a significant component of the maintenance work, commenced after a specialized vessel was positioned 18 kilometers offshore from the Tema Regulating and Metering Station. Following the depressurization of the lateral lines, the valve replacement process began and is currently underway. This concurrent maintenance activity underscores WAPCo’s commitment to maximizing the effectiveness of the scheduled shutdown period, ensuring comprehensive maintenance across various segments of the pipeline infrastructure.
WAPCo emphasizes the importance of these maintenance activities for ensuring the long-term integrity and reliability of the gas pipeline, a critical infrastructure asset serving both Ghana and Nigeria. These proactive maintenance measures aim to prevent potential disruptions in gas supply and contribute to the stable and efficient operation of the energy sector in both countries. The company’s commitment to transparency and open communication is evident in its engagement with the media, providing regular updates and clarifications regarding the ongoing maintenance work.
The West Africa Gas Pipeline represents a significant investment in regional energy infrastructure, and its continued operational integrity is crucial for the sustainable development of the region’s energy sector. By prioritizing preventative maintenance and adhering to stringent regulatory guidelines, WAPCo demonstrates its commitment to ensuring the long-term reliability and safety of the pipeline, reinforcing its role as a key player in West Africa’s energy landscape. The company’s proactive communication strategy, exemplified by its engagement with the media, serves to inform stakeholders and build confidence in its operational practices.
