Nigeria’s gas export disrupted as suspected militants blow up Oando pipelines

Nigeria’s natural gas exports have been affected after three separate attacks targeted a key pipeline in Bayelsa State that supplies gas to the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) export facility in Bonny, Rivers State.

The Ogboinbiri-Obiobi 24-inch gas pipeline, which runs between Angiama and Angiamagbene in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, was vandalized on April 3 in what is believed to be a coordinated act of sabotage by suspected militants.

Oando PLC, the operator of the compromised pipeline, confirmed the incident in a statement issued Friday, adding that operations on the line have been suspended to prevent further environmental damage and facilitate a full investigation.

“Oando PLC confirms three separate attacks on its pipelines over the past week,” said Idongesit Edet, Assistant Manager of Public Relations and Internal Communications at the company.

“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.

“The company also immediately deployed its leak repair teams to the affected sites and is working closely with relevant authorities to promptly carry out a Joint Investigation Visit (JIV),” Edet said.

A JIV is a regulatory requirement that brings together representatives from the operating company, government agencies, and host communities to determine the cause, volume, and impact of any pipeline leak or spill.

Oando said the outcome of the investigation would inform its next steps in addressing the damage.

“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,” the statement added.