NNPC Records 9,000 Pipeline Infractions in One Year: A Call for Action

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has reported an alarming 9,000 pipeline infractions in just one year.

This staggering figure underscores the magnitude of the oil theft issue plaguing the nation’s vital energy infrastructure.

The NNPC’s Group Managing Director, Mr. Mele Kyari, shared this information with the House of Representatives Special Committee on Oil Theft during an oversight function at the NNPC headquarters in Abuja.

Kyari highlighted the widespread nature of the problem, noting that the corporation discovered 5,570 illegal connections to pipelines and deactivated 6,465 illegal refineries in the same period.

Despite these efforts, the NNPC is still grappling with the challenge of removing the remaining illegal connections and preventing new ones from being established.

The NNPC’s management has acknowledged the involvement of various actors in the oil theft, including security agencies, private security, and local communities.

Kyari emphasized the importance of addressing the security aspect of the issue, stating that no country should surrender the protection of such critical assets to non-state actors.

The oil theft has had a significant impact on Nigeria’s oil production, with the NNPC struggling to meet the budget estimate of 1.6 million barrels per day.

Kyari explained that this is due to the fact that oil producers are hesitant to invest in production when they cannot guarantee the security of their output.

In response to the growing concerns, the House of Representatives Special Committee on Oil Theft has been established to investigate the issue and develop solutions to curb the rampant theft and vandalism.

The committee’s Chairman, Rep. Alhassan Ado-Doguwa, has emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in the oil and gas sector to address the problem effectively.

As the NNPC and the government continue to grapple with the issue, it is crucial for all stakeholders to engage in open dialogue and collaborative efforts to protect Nigeria’s vital energy infrastructure and ensure the nation’s economic stability.

The fight against oil theft and pipeline vandalism is an ongoing battle, and it will require a concerted effort from all parties involved to bring about lasting change.