Bayelsa Communities Demand Action on Aging Oil Pipelines

Oil-producing communities in Bayelsa State have called on oil companies and relevant authorities to address the environmental risks posed by ageing pipelines, abandoned wellheads, and continued gas flaring. This appeal was made during a stakeholders’ meeting organized by Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) in Yenagoa.

King Bubaraye Dakolo Agada IV of Ekpetiama Kingdom emphasized that efforts to prevent pipeline vandalism must coincide with measures to mitigate risks associated with oil and gas infrastructure. He warned that increased oil production could lead to more revenue for Nigeria but also highlighted the long-term environmental damage and loss of livelihoods caused by oil spills.

Dakolo urged PINL to alert authorities and industry operators about the dangers of old pipelines and gas flaring. Dr Akpos Mezeh, General Manager of Community and Government Relations at PINL, reported two months without pipeline vandalism, attributing this to cooperation among stakeholders.

He stressed the importance of protecting critical infrastructure to sustain production and attract investment.