NSA, PINL reinforce security, community collaboration to curb oil theft in Niger Delta

The Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s determination to dismantle oil theft networks and protect critical national assets across the Niger Delta, even as Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) continues to deepen engagement with host communities to boost crude oil production.

This renewed commitment was emphasised at a high-level community stakeholders forum convened by PINL in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

Representing NSA Nuhu Ribadu at the event, the Special Adviser on Energy, Security, and Finance to the NSA, Amakiri Harry-Young, disclosed that over 100 individuals have already been prosecuted for involvement in pipeline vandalism and oil theft, with 15 suspects recently remanded at the Port Harcourt prison.

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Harry-Young noted that a dedicated federal committee, comprising investigative and prosecutorial teams, is actively working to ensure that perpetrators are not only apprehended but also face the full weight of the law.

“The President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is fully committed to meeting the 2.5 million barrels per day oil production target. Security around critical oil infrastructure is being strengthened, and community cooperation remains key to this success,” he said.

In alignment with federal efforts, PINL also reaffirmed its corporate commitment to fostering collaboration with host communities and state actors to ensure operational safety, improve oil output, and advance local development.

Speaking at the event, PINL’s Consultant on Community Relations, Akpos Mezeh, emphasised that lasting peace and productivity in oil-producing communities require mutual trust and active engagement.

“Our strategy is built on inclusiveness, infrastructural support, and timely response to local needs,” Mezeh said.

“This has drastically reduced pipeline infractions, enhanced investor confidence, and supported national revenue growth.”

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Mezeh further explained that through consistent community interface, economic empowerment programs, and prompt payment of surveillance guards, the company has recorded near-zero pipeline vandalism on the Trans Niger Pipeline corridor. He added that PINL has deployed military support and portable cabins to improve surveillance and security across strategic locations.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited, Rear Admiral Akinjide Akinrinade (rtd), expressed appreciation for the growing cooperation between host communities and the company.

He acknowledged the vital role of community stakeholders in embracing and supporting PINL’s policies aimed at securing oil pipelines within their domains.

“The success we have achieved is largely due to the partnership and shared sense of responsibility with the people. We will continue to rely on this synergy to safeguard national assets and improve outcomes for all stakeholders,” Akinrinade said.

Community leaders at the forum commended the monthly stakeholder meeting initiative, describing it as a model for participatory governance in oil sector operations. They urged the company to continue matching promises with visible projects that align with grassroots priorities.

His Royal Majesty, King (Dr.) WSJ Igbugburu X, Ibenanawei of Bomo Kingdom in Southern Ijaw, praised PINL for its hands-on approach and sustained engagement, saying, “No other surveillance firm has shown this level of commitment. We urge others to emulate this approach to protect our communities and national assets.”

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President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Prof. Benjamin Okaba, used the platform to demand a review of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which he said offers only a paltry three percent to host communities. Meanwhile, other prominent Ijaw leaders, including former Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Presidents Felix Tuodulo, Chris Ekiyor, and TK Ogoriba, commended PINL for its impactful operations and consistent engagement with host communities, rating the company highly for its achievements in the region.

In recognition of service excellence, PINL also presented awards to outstanding contractors, including Global Security Limited, Unified Experience Energy Nigeria Limited, and Cloud Option Limited. The Association of Rural Chiefs for Peace and Development, represented by INC Vice President II Nengi James and environmentalist Morris Alagoa, also honored Mezeh for his exceptional contributions to community relations and policy implementation.

The forum ended with a renewed call for cooperation among oil firms, government agencies, and local communities to ensure a secure, inclusive, and economically viable oil and gas sector in the Niger Delta.