IYC Calls for Enhanced Community Engagement on Pipelines

Stakeholders from oil and gas host communities in Bayelsa State, including the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, have called for the Federal Government to improve engagement with these communities to enhance pipeline security and increase oil output. During a bi-monthly forum convened by Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), Comrade Famous Daunemigha, Second National Deputy President of IYC, highlighted that PINL's regular meetings with host communities along the Trans Niger Pipeline have significantly contributed to securing the pipelines, resulting in zero infractions.

Daunemigha emphasized the importance of community involvement in the oil and gas value chain, stating that when local communities feel ownership of the resources, it fosters peace and cooperation. HRH David Oseni Oseni of Elebele Community acknowledged PINL's role in protecting the environment and warned against tampering with pipelines due to the adverse effects on local communities.

He noted that oil spills have detrimental impacts on agriculture and aquaculture, affecting the community directly.