Collaboration with host communities has reduced pipeline vandalism, illegal bunkering -PINL

By Obiabin Onukwugha

The Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), says it’s collaboration with host communities has reduced pipeline vandalism and illegal bunkering in its area of operations.

The company also noted that prosecution and conviction of 120 pipeline vandals and oil thieves in the Niger Delta region by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) have led to further reduction of illegal bunkering activities in the region.

PINL is an indigenous surveillance firm incharge of securing the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP), covering Abia, Bayelsa, Imo and Rivers States.

The company’s community relations and development consultant, Dr. Akpos Mezeh, spoke during a stakeholders’ meeting for host communities of the four states under its operations in Port Harcourt, Rivers State on Monday.

Mezeh stated that in line with the company’s core mission of securing the Eastern Corridor pipelines, PINL has recorded near-zero incidents in the past month, adding that the outstanding result speaks volumes about the strength of their collaboration with host communities and the commitment of our teams on the ground.

“I am delighted to inform you that, in line with our core mission of securing the Eastern Corridor pipelines, PINL has recorded near-zero incidents in the past month.

“This outstanding result speaks volumes about the strength of our collaboration with host communities and the commitment of our teams on the ground.

“These achievements are rooted in the consistent application of proven strategies—ensuring the safety of our surveillance personnel, timely salary payments, and rapid community dispute resolution, all contributing to reduced downtime and increased trust,” he said.

Mezeh noted that the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) in its resolve to promote safety among communities, has successfully conducted and secured over 120 investigations, prosecutions and convictions of vandals and oil thieves, while calling for continued collaboration.

“In a proactive move to promote safer communities and ensure justice, the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), a trusted and strategic partner has successfully conducted and secured over 120 investigations, prosecutions and convictions of vandals and oil thieves.

“Today, we ask only for your honest and constructive feedback on how we can further enhance our efforts in curbing pipeline vandalism, oil theft, and environmental pollution,” he stated.