By Eunice Nnachi, Yenagoa
Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening community partnerships, enhancing infrastructure security, and driving sustainable development across host communities during its March 2026 Stakeholders Engagement Meeting held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
Speaking at the meeting, the General Manager, Community and Stakeholders Relations, Dr. Akpos Mezeh, emphasized the critical role of collaboration between host communities, security agencies, and operators in safeguarding national assets. He described community partnership as central to national security, noting that “when communities protect infrastructure, they protect livelihoods, national revenue, and the future of our country.”
Dr. Mezeh highlighted recent gains in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, referencing the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL)’s January 2026 report, which recorded ₦385 billion profit after tax and ₦2.571 trillion in revenue.
He said the improved performance reflects growing operational efficiency and underscores the importance of protecting critical energy infrastructure.
He also noted increased gas production and supply, which continues to support power generation, industrial use, and exports, aligning with the Federal Government’s Decade of Gas Initiative.
According to him, strategic projects such as the AKK and OB3 pipelines are not only energy assets but also economic drivers capable of creating jobs and stimulating development.
Addressing security concerns, the PINL official issued a strong warning to contractors and surveillance teams against negligence and collusion.
He revealed that two tankers were recently intercepted at the Atali axis in Rivers State while attempting to illegally load crude oil, an operation foiled through intelligence efforts.
“Preliminary findings point to a coordinated conspiracy. Once investigations are concluded, everyone found culpable will be brought to justice. No one will be spared,” he warned.
He further disclosed a case of sabotage linked to negligence by surveillance guards in Bayelsa State, describing the incident as unacceptable and reiterating that any contractor found wanting would face contract termination and prosecution.
Despite these challenges, Dr. Mezeh commended the improved collaboration among stakeholders, noting that enhanced community intelligence systems have significantly reduced crude oil theft and vandalism across operational corridors.
On community development, PINL outlined several ongoing initiatives, including scholarship schemes, women empowerment programmes, medical outreach, and humanitarian support. The company also announced plans to launch a comprehensive Youth Skills Acquisition Programme in 2026 across Bayelsa, Rivers, Imo, and Abia states.
He acknowledged feedback from stakeholders, particularly regarding delays in women empowerment payments, assuring that disbursements would commence soon in partnership with Premium Trust Bank.
Stakeholders at the meeting commended PINL’s efforts in fostering peace and development. Traditional rulers and community leaders praised the company’s scholarship and palliative programmes while calling for expanded youth training, women empowerment, and improved engagement strategies.
PINL also reiterated its commitment to environmental sustainability through pipeline integrity management, rapid response systems, and community sensitization programmes aimed at preserving local ecosystems.
Dr. Mezeh stressed that trust, transparency, and effective grievance resolution remain key to sustaining relationships with host communities. He outlined the company’s 2026 priorities, including achieving zero infractions along pipeline corridors, deploying modern surveillance technologies, and deepening collaboration with government and security agencies.
He concluded by urging stakeholders to remain vigilant and committed to shared responsibilities, emphasizing that continued cooperation is essential for securing infrastructure, promoting economic growth, and ensuring national prosperity.
