The Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) has dismantled 500 illegal oil bunkering flash points across Cross River, Abia, Rivers, and other oil-producing states collectively referred to as the Niger Delta in the past few months.
This was revealed by the President of Rivers State Ex-Agitators Network for Development (REAND), Comr. Henry Itazi, also known as General Small Pepper, in Abuja on Tuesday.
Briefing journalists on the activities of PINL in the region to secure the oil pipelines in the area, Itazi said the exceptional efforts of PINL have been a significant factor in the progress of the Nigerian oil industry.
He further stated that „the Niger Delta region, historically marred by challenges of pipeline vandalism and theft, has faced significant setbacks in ensuring the safety and continuity of crude oil transportation.
However, through the remarkable efforts of PINL, we have witnessed a substantial reduction in pipeline sabotage and theft incidents, thereby enhancing the security of this critical infrastructure.
PINL has safeguarded the nation’s most valuable natural resource by fortifying and securing the pipelines and positively influenced Nigeria’s crude oil production capacity. The reduction in pipeline breaches has directly contributed to the increase in production, allowing the country to recover much-needed production volumes. PINL’s strategic approach to pipeline security has brought stability to the oil sector, ensuring that Nigeria’s crude oil output continues to rise steadily.
“We are particularly appreciative of the company‘s consistent commitment to restoring the integrity of pipelines across the region, which is central to Nigeria’s position as one of the leading oil producers in Africa. The measures undertaken by PINL have facilitated a safer, more reliable environment for oil exploration and transportation, significantly improving the country’s ability to meet both domestic and international demand for crude oil.“
According to the group, „it is evident that PINL is fully committed to eradicating illegal oil refining and theft in Nigeria. This commitment is practically demonstrated through their consistent drive, which has led to the dismantling of over 500 illegal oil bunkering flash points across Cross River, Abia, Rivers, and other oil-producing states collectively referred to as the Niger Delta. These efforts testify to their resolute commitment to restoring dignity to the Nigerian energy sector and strengthening its integrity.
We commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, vis-a-vis the managing director of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mr Mele Kyari, for recognising the immense value that the services of the Petroleum Infrastructure and Logistics Nigeria Limited bring to the nation‘s energy sector. The continued patronage of the company has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in advancing Nigeria‘s infrastructural capabilities, particularly in ensuring the smooth transportation and distribution of petroleum products.
We urge President Tinubu to maintain his patronage of PINL, as it is crucial to Nigeria‘s ongoing efforts to enhance energy security, promote economic growth, and drive the nation towards greater self-sufficiency in its energy needs. While celebrating the successes, we urge Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited to continue on this positive trajectory. Nigeria has set an ambitious target of reaching three million barrels per day in crude oil production, and we believe that with the continued dedication of PINL, this goal is achievable and within reach.“
