June 15, (THEWILL) – Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), the pipeline surveillance firm overseeing security operations along the Eastern Corridor of the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP), says its activities have significantly contributed to environmental restoration in the Niger Delta by curbing pipeline vandalism.
The company noted that prior to its engagement three years ago, the region was plagued by widespread pollution, with the air thick with soot — a byproduct of incomplete combustion caused by illegal oil refining.
However, through sustained surveillance and continuous engagement with host communities, PINL said it has achieved considerable environmental improvement.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ engagement session in Bayelsa State, Dr. Akpos Mezeh, Community Relations Consultant for PINL, said the company has recorded near-zero infractions on the TNP, resulting in increased crude oil output and improved national revenue.
“Collectively, we have achieved near-zero breaches on the pipelines under our watch. This has ensured uninterrupted operations along the Trans Niger Pipeline and allowed crude oil to flow freely from production fields,” he said.
He further remarked that the environmental impact of the surveillance efforts is now evident across the region.
“We all recall the days of soot covering everything. You’d dry your clothes, and the next day the colours would be altered.
“That has changed significantly. Our environment is experiencing some level of restoration, and our environmentalists can attest to the progress we’ve made,” Mezeh stated.
He also said the improved security has bolstered investor confidence in the Nigerian economy.
“With increased crude oil production, more revenue is now available to the federal government. This positively impacts investor perception and confidence in our economy,” he added.
Mezeh highlighted PINL’s broader engagement in host communities, including peace-building efforts, stakeholder support, and aligning with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
However, he cautioned that some challenges remain, particularly instability in certain communities and occasional connivance by some stakeholders, which hinder smooth operations.
Despite the challenges, Mezeh reaffirmed PINL’s commitment to sustaining peace, improving pipeline security, and promoting environmental recovery in the Niger Delta.
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
