Nigeria Gas Pipeline Sabotage: Three attacks on Oando-operated pipeline in Bayelsa disrupt NLNG exports. Joint investigation underway to assess damage and prevent recurrence

Nigeria’s gas export capabilities have been significantly impacted following three separate sabotage attacks on a critical pipeline in Bayelsa State.

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The affected pipeline, the Ogboinbiri-Obiobi 24-inch Gas Pipeline, which feeds the Nigeria Liquid Natural Gas (NLNG) export terminal in Bonny, Rivers State, is operated by Oando PLC.

Oando PLC confirmed that the attacks occurred on April 3, targeting three distinct locations along the pipeline, situated between Angiama and Angiamagbene in the Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa.

Idongesit Edet, Assistant Manager, Public Relations and Internal Communications at Oando PLC, released a statement detailing the incident.

“Oando PLC confirms three separate attacks on its pipelines over the past week. In line with best practices, the company immediately activated its emergency response plans and commenced containment efforts at the affected sites to minimize environmental impact,” Edet stated.

The company has also deployed leak repair teams to the affected sites and is collaborating with relevant authorities to conduct a Joint Investigation Visit (JIV).

The JIV is a mandatory investigation involving regulators, the operator, and the host community, aimed at determining the cause and extent of the leak, as well as the affected areas.

Oando emphasised that the JIV’s assessment will be crucial in identifying the root cause of the sabotage and implementing sustainable solutions.

“Following the JIV, Oando will initiate full scale repairs on the affected pipelines towards ensuring operations resume as quickly as possible, whilst prioritizing the safety of people, the protection of the environment, and well-being of the communities. The company is committed to providing further updates as more information becomes available,” Oando stated.

The sabotage attacks have raised concerns about the security of Nigeria’s critical energy infrastructure and the potential impact on international gas supply. The investigation and subsequent repairs will be closely monitored to mitigate further disruptions.