Pipeline Insecurity Threatens Nigeria's $20 Billion Gas Deals

Nigeria's $20 billion gas deals depend on pipeline security, according to Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), a pipeline surveillance firm. The company claims that stronger pipeline security is necessary to safeguard these massive investments.

At a stakeholders meeting in Yenagoa, Akpos Mezeh, General Manager of Community and Stakeholders Relations at PINL, stated that the future of the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline (AAGP) is linked to the protection of oil and gas assets in Nigeria. The AAGP will transport 30 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually, connecting West Africa to Morocco and European energy markets.

Mezeh highlighted NNPC Limited's recent achievements, including securing over $20 billion in Gas Sale and Purchase Agreements and signing strategic agreements with major investors such as the Dangote Refinery. He emphasized that these investments can only deliver their intended benefits if the supporting infrastructure remains protected from vandalism, crude oil theft, and sabotage.

Bubaraye Dakolo, Ibenanaowei of Epetiama Kingdom in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, also spoke at the meeting. He urged the Federal Government to increase funding for pipeline security in the Niger Delta region, citing socio-economic factors contributing to pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft.