N’Delta: Ex-Agitators Laud Pipeline Infrastructure Firm over Eradication of 500 Illegal Oil Bunkering Sites

*Say drive against theft boosted oil production

The Rivers State Ex-Agitators Network for Development (REAND) Tuesday said the sustained drive of the Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) against oil theft which led to the eradication of 500 illegal oil bunkering sites boosted oil production in the Niger Delta region.
Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja, President of the group, Comrade Henry Itazi and the Secretary, Comrade King Ibu, said by fortifying and securing the pipelines, PINL has not only safeguarded the nation’s most valuable natural resource but has also positively influenced Nigeria’s crude oil production capacity.
The duo said the reduction in pipeline breaches had directly contributed to the increase in production, allowing the country to recover much-needed production volumes, noting that PINL’s strategic approach to pipeline security has been instrumental in bringing stability to the oil sector, ensuring that Nigeria’s crude oil output continues to rise steadily.
“We are particularly appreciative of the company’s consistent commitment to restoring the integrity of pipelines across the region, which is central to Nigeria’s position as one of the leading oil producers in Africa.
“The measures undertaken by PINL have facilitated a safer, more reliable environment for oil exploration and transportation, significantly improving the country’s ability to meet both domestic and international demand for crude oil”, the group said.
“It is evident that PINL is fully committed to eradicating illegal oil refining and oil theft in Nigeria. This commitment is practically demonstrated through their consistent drive which has led to the dismantling of over 500 illegal oil bunkering flash points across Cross River, Abia, Rivers, and other oil-producing states collectively referred to as the Niger Delta. “These efforts serve as a testimonial to their resolute commitment to restore dignity to the Nigerian energy sector and strengthen its overall integrity. PINL’s actions underline its crucial role in safeguarding the nation’s critical resources and enhancing the sustainability of the energy industry”, it said.
The group commended President Bola Tinubu and the Managing Director of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mr Mele Kyari, for recognising the immense value that the services of the Petroleum Infrastructure and Logistics Nigeria Limited (PINL) bring to the nation’s energy sector.
“The continued patronage of the company has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in advancing Nigeria’s infrastructural capabilities, particularly in ensuring the smooth transportation and distribution of petroleum products.
“We stand in unity to applaud the outstanding contributions of Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) in securing pipelines across the Niger Delta region and playing a pivotal role in facilitating the boost in Nigeria’s crude oil production quantum.
“The exceptional efforts of PINL have been a significant factor in the progress of the Nigerian oil industry, and we are proud to recognise their impact on the security and economic development of the nation”, it said.