By Abdullahi Lukman
The Ogun State Coordinator of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Dr. Simeon Atilola, has called on oil and gas operators to take proactive steps to protect their investments, safeguard lives, and maintain energy security amid forecasted flooding across parts of Ogun and Lagos states.
Atilola made the appeal in Abeokuta during an emergency meeting with leaders of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), following a flood alert from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which identified at least 15 flood-prone communities in Ogun State.
He explained that flooding poses serious risks to oil and gas installations, often leading to spillages, environmental degradation, and disruptions in the supply of petroleum products.
Atilola noted that the agency convened the meeting to collaborate with industry stakeholders on strategies to minimize these risks.
“Flooding from the northern dams will flow down through the River Niger, affecting parts of Ogun, especially areas such as Isheri, Magboro, Akute, Ifo, Iro, Kajola, Orimerunmu, Alagbole, Makogi, and Lafenwa,” he said.
“Our goal is to protect lives, investments, and the environment while ensuring uninterrupted energy supply.”
The meeting resolved to establish a flood response team to provide coordinated support during the flooding period.
Stakeholders also agreed to set up communication channels between operators, regulators, and the public for real-time updates and compliance with safety procedures.
All fuel tanks in affected areas are to be properly secured and recommissioned by the NMDPRA before resuming operations after the floods.
Former IPMAN Secretary, Alhaji Sodiq Mahmud, and IPMAN Lagos Secretary, Alhaji Akeem Balogun, commended the NMDPRA for the engagement, describing it as a timely and safety-focused initiative.
Earlier, Ogun State Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ola Oresanya, had warned residents in riverbank and wetland communities to prepare for possible flooding between October 20 and November 3 due to controlled water releases from the Oyan Dam.
He advised residents to move to higher ground and avoid riverbanks to prevent loss of lives and property.