 export terminal in Bonny, Rivers State.){kind=link}
Nigeria’s gas export operations have taken a hit following three separate sabotage attacks on a major gas pipeline in Bayelsa State, which supplies the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) export terminal in Bonny, Rivers State.
The affected pipeline, a 24-inch Ogboinbiri-Obiobi line running between Angiama and Angiamagbene in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, was targeted in three different locations on April 3.
In response, Oando PLC, operators of the facility, has halted operations on the line to prevent further environmental damage and to allow for a proper investigation.
The development was disclosed in a statement released by Idongesit Edet, Assistant Manager of Public Relations and Internal Communications at Oando.
“Oando PLC confirms that its gas infrastructure was deliberately attacked at three separate points within the past week. As part of our safety and environmental protocols, the company immediately triggered emergency response procedures and deployed containment measures at the incident sites to reduce environmental impact,” the statement read.
The company noted that its leak repair teams were promptly mobilized and are collaborating with the appropriate authorities to carry out a Joint Investigation Visit (JIV).
The JIV is a regulatory process conducted with input from the operator, relevant government agencies, and host communities, aimed at identifying the source, volume, and environmental impact of any oil or gas spill.
Oando emphasized that the investigation would guide efforts to determine the full scope and underlying cause of the pipeline breaches.
Once the JIV is concluded, the company will begin full restoration of the damaged pipeline to resume operations as soon as it is safe to do so.
“In the aftermath of the JIV, repair activities will be launched to restore the affected pipeline. Throughout this process, the company remains committed to safeguarding human lives, preserving the environment, and protecting the interests of surrounding communities,” the statement added.
Oando also assured the public that more information would be shared as developments unfold.