AfrOil: Benin approves Niger’s first export of crude oil

Benin will allow Niger to export its oil through its port, Porto-Novo has revealed. This decision follows complications stemming from diplomatic tensions between the neighbouring West African countries.

Niger completed its pipeline to Benin, intended to transport crude from its Agadem oilfield to the port of Seme Kpodji for international shipping, in November 2023.

However, Benin had threatened to terminate the agreement after Niger closed its border and refused to permit Beninese goods entry into the country. Niger’s frontiers have been sealed shut since the military coup in July 2023.

On May 15, Benin's Minister of Mines, Samou Seidou Adambi, affirmed the country's commitment to the pipeline project.

"Benin intends to play its part in all agreements signed within the framework of this pipeline project," the minister said. "Benin authorises the loading of the first ship currently anchored in our waters."

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