Juliet Ezeh
Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) has reinforced its commitment to securing critical energy infrastructure while fostering sustainable community development, highlighting the role of host communities in national security and economic growth.
Speaking at the March 2026 Stakeholders Engagement Meeting in Yenagoa, the General Manager of Community and Stakeholders Relations, Dr. Akpos Mezeh, stressed that collaboration between operators, security agencies, and communities is central to protecting national assets.
“When communities protect infrastructure, they protect livelihoods, national revenue, and the future of our country,” Dr. Mezeh said, emphasizing that pipeline security is not just an operational concern, but a shared responsibility critical to national prosperity.
He highlighted recent gains in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, referencing NNPCL’s January 2026 report, which recorded ₦385 billion in profit after tax and ₦2.571 trillion in revenue, noting that enhanced operational efficiency must be matched by robust security measures.
Dr. Mezeh also pointed to key projects like the AKK and OB3 pipelines, noting their dual role as energy assets and economic drivers that support power generation, industrial use, and exports under the Federal Government’s Decade of Gas Initiative.
Addressing pipeline sabotage and oil theft, he issued a stern warning to contractors and surveillance personnel: negligence and collusion will not be tolerated. He revealed that two tankers were recently intercepted in Rivers State while attempting illegal crude loading, and a case of sabotage in Bayelsa linked to surveillance negligence is under investigation.
“Preliminary findings suggest a coordinated conspiracy. Once investigations conclude, all culpable parties will face justice. No one will be spared,” he said, underscoring PINL’s zero-tolerance policy.
Despite security challenges, Dr. Mezeh praised enhanced community intelligence systems, noting that improved collaboration has significantly reduced crude oil theft and vandalism along operational corridors.
On community development, PINL showcased ongoing initiatives, including scholarship programs, women empowerment projects, medical outreach, and humanitarian support, while announcing plans for a comprehensive Youth Skills Acquisition Programme across Bayelsa, Rivers, Imo, and Abia States in 2026.
Responding to stakeholder feedback, particularly regarding delays in women empowerment disbursements, Dr. Mezeh assured that payments would commence soon in partnership with Premium Trust Bank.
Traditional rulers and community leaders commended PINL’s efforts, calling for expanded youth training, women empowerment, and enhanced stakeholder engagement.
PINL also reaffirmed its commitment to environmental sustainability, emphasizing pipeline integrity management, rapid response systems, and community sensitization initiatives to safeguard local ecosystems.
Looking ahead, Dr. Mezeh outlined PINL’s 2026 priorities: achieving zero infractions along pipeline corridors, deploying modern surveillance technologies, and deepening collaboration with security agencies and government partners.
“Trust, transparency, and effective grievance resolution remain key to sustaining relationships with host communities. Together, we can secure infrastructure, promote economic growth, and ensure national prosperity,” he concluded.
Juliet Ezeh is the founder and chief reporter at Westbridge Reporters with over 7 years of experience in journalism. She covers crime, industry, policy, and social developments, delivering timely and accurate reporting.