The West African Gas Pipeline Company Limited (WAPCo) has initiated preparatory works ahead of its mandatory maintenance shutdown, which is expected to last for 28 days.
The scheduled maintenance is a critical exercise aimed at ensuring the continued efficiency and safety of the pipeline, which plays a vital role in the transportation of natural gas across the West African sub-region.
On Wednesday, January 29, 2025, Channel One News visited WAPCo’s Takoradi Regulatory and Metering Station at the Aboadze Thermal Plant to assess the ongoing preparations. The site visit provided insights into the meticulous planning and technical measures being put in place to execute the maintenance work efficiently.
In an interview, WAPCo West’s Operations and Maintenance Manager, Engineer Benoni Owusu Ayeh, assured that the maintenance work would be completed within the scheduled timeframe. He emphasized that all necessary steps were being taken to ensure a smooth and timely execution of the exercise, minimizing disruptions to gas supply and operations.
According to him, this maintenance shutdown is the longest the company has undertaken, occurring once every five years. Given its significance, WAPCo has synchronized all maintenance activities to maximize efficiency and effectiveness. The shutdown will also provide an opportunity to address outstanding technical issues, including the repair of subsea valves in Tema and Cotonou, which have experienced operational challenges. In addition to these critical offshore repairs, the company will also conduct comprehensive onshore maintenance activities, further enhancing the overall integrity of the pipeline infrastructure.
He further emphasized the importance of the maintenance, stating that while it is an extensive and complex exercise, it is necessary to uphold the long-term reliability of the pipeline system. Routine maintenance of such magnitude is crucial in ensuring the uninterrupted and safe transportation of natural gas, preventing potential failures that could disrupt supply and affect various industries dependent on gas for power generation and industrial operations.
Meanwhile, WAPCo had earlier announced a two-week postponement of its offshore pipeline cleaning and inspection exercise, known as “pigging,” to accommodate key stakeholder interests. The pigging process, a vital maintenance procedure, involves using specialized equipment known as “pigs” to clean and inspect the interior of the pipeline, removing debris and identifying any potential issues. Originally set to commence on January 20, 2025, the comprehensive maintenance work has now been rescheduled to begin on February 3, 2025.
The decision to postpone the pigging exercise underscores WAPCo’s commitment to balancing operational efficiency with stakeholder engagement. Given the extensive network of industries, power plants, and commercial entities that rely on the gas supply from WAPCo, the company has taken deliberate steps to ensure minimal disruption while carrying out these essential maintenance activities.
WAPCo’s maintenance strategy is aligned with international best practices for pipeline integrity management. Regular maintenance, including subsea valve replacements, pigging, and onshore infrastructure upgrades, helps mitigate risks such as corrosion, leaks, and mechanical failures. By adopting a proactive approach to maintenance, WAPCo aims to enhance the reliability of the gas supply chain, ensuring that natural gas continues to flow efficiently to customers in Ghana, Togo, Benin, and Nigeria.
The West African Gas Pipeline remains a critical energy infrastructure project that supports economic growth and industrial development across the region. The pipeline facilitates the transportation of natural gas from Nigeria to its neighboring countries, promoting energy security and reducing dependency on costlier and more environmentally harmful fuel sources. Over the years, WAPCo has played a crucial role in stabilizing energy supply, particularly for power generation, which is essential for sustaining economic activities.
Beyond industrial applications, WAPCo’s operations contribute to the broader energy transition efforts within West Africa. As the global energy landscape shifts toward cleaner energy sources, natural gas is widely regarded as a bridge fuel that can support the transition from traditional fossil fuels to renewable energy.
By maintaining a reliable gas supply infrastructure, WAPCo ensures that industries and power producers have access to a cleaner alternative, helping to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable development.
The 28-day maintenance shutdown also highlights the importance of regional collaboration in managing shared energy infrastructure.
WAPCo operates within a framework that involves multiple stakeholders, including national governments, regulatory bodies, and commercial entities. The successful execution of this maintenance work requires coordinated efforts from all parties involved, ensuring that the pipeline remains safe, operational, and efficient.
While the maintenance shutdown is necessary, it may result in temporary disruptions to gas supply in affected areas. However, WAPCo has assured customers and stakeholders that contingency plans are in place to manage any potential impacts.
The company is working closely with gas suppliers and distribution partners to ensure a smooth transition before, during, and after the maintenance period.
As WAPCo continues to invest in the long-term sustainability of its infrastructure, this maintenance exercise serves as a testament to its commitment to operational excellence.
Regular inspections, upgrades, and proactive maintenance measures are essential for ensuring the resilience of the pipeline, preventing unexpected failures, and safeguarding the interests of customers across the region.
Looking ahead, WAPCo remains focused on enhancing its operational capabilities, leveraging advanced technology, and strengthening regional partnerships to further optimize gas transportation efficiency.
By prioritizing maintenance and infrastructure development, the company is positioning itself as a key player in West Africa’s energy landscape, contributing to economic growth and energy security for millions of people.
With the upcoming maintenance shutdown, WAPCo continues to demonstrate its dedication to industry standards, safety, and long-term sustainability. The company’s proactive approach to pipeline management reflects its commitment to delivering reliable and efficient natural gas supply to its customers.
As the February 3, 2025, commencement date approaches, all hands remain on deck to ensure a successful execution of the maintenance work, ultimately reinforcing the reliability of the West African Gas Pipeline for years to come.
