By Obiabin Onukwugha
Nigeria’s vital oil and gas assets can only be effectively protected when host communities remain united, vigilant, cooperative, and firm against acts of sabotage, an indigenous surveillance company, Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), has asserted.
PINL General Manager, Community and Stakeholders Relations, Dr. Akpos Mezeh, made the assertion at a Stakeholders Engagement Meeting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
He emphasized that strong community collaboration is essential for ensuring security and accelerating development across the Niger Delta.
“When communities unite, security strengthens. When security strengthens, development follows,” Mezeh said.
He highlighted key operational gains, including, Strengthened Security on the Eastern Corridor. Over 87 percent reduction in pipeline vandalism compared to 2022.
The PINL official also revealed increase in community-based intelligence from 10.5 percent to 68 percent, showing heightened trust and cooperation, Women Empowerment Programme; Data capture for over 2,000 women completed.
Mezeh listed the company’s strategic priorities moving forward, to include advocating for Federal intervention on the Eleme–Onne road—responsible for over 60 percent of logistics strain—and strengthening coordination with security agencies, ONSA, and operational partners.
He urged stakeholders to remain united and committed. “PINL cannot do this alone. With our royal fathers, youth leaders, contractors, intelligence networks, NNPCL, and ONSA, we will continue to protect Nigeria’s vital oil and gas infrastructure,” he said.
Speaking at the session, traditional ruler of Ancient Ahoada Kingdom, King Noble Friday Uwoh (CSP rtd.), praised PINL for its professionalism and community-centered approach. He said PINL’s work has significantly reduced oil theft and pipeline infractions, contributing to increased crude output for the Federal Government.
“Your engagement model has opened new frontiers in community relations and inspired other organizations. This is the new wave of engagement Nigeria needs,” he stated.