December 12, (THEWILL) — The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has confirmed an explosion along the Escravos–Lagos gas pipeline near Tebijor, Okpele, and Ikpopo communities in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State, prompting emergency response operations and raising concerns over the safety of critical national energy infrastructure.
According to a statement from the company’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh, the incident occurred around 5:50 p.m. on December 10, 2025.
NNPC said preliminary observations suggest a sudden pressure drop on the pipeline, operated by the NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company (NGIC), indicating a possible “loss of containment” prior to the explosion. The exact cause will be determined following a full technical investigation.
“Our priority at this time is the safety of nearby communities and the protection of the environment,” the company said.
Emergency response teams have been dispatched to the site, and NNPC is coordinating closely with regulators, local authorities, and community leaders to contain the situation and evaluate the impact.
Residents in parts of Gbaramatu reported hearing a loud blast and seeing thick smoke rising from the swampy corridor where the gas pipeline runs. No casualties have been officially reported as of press time.
NNPC assured that it remains committed to maintaining the highest safety and environmental standards and promised to provide updates as verified information becomes available.
The Escravos–Lagos Pipeline System (ELPS) is a strategic gas supply route feeding power plants and industrial users nationwide, making any disruption a matter of national significance.
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