Leaders of host ethnic nationalities in the Eastern Corridor of Nigeria’s oil-producing belt have commended Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) for its role in securing the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) and other oil and gas assets, calling for the renewal and expansion of the company’s contract with the Federal Government.
At a world press conference held in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, representatives of the Ijaw, Ekpeye, Ikwerre, Eleme, Ogoni, Andoni, Bonny, Egbema, Ukwa, Oguta, and other ethnic nationalities described PINL’s engagement since 2022 as transformative, crediting the firm for restoring oil production, reducing unemployment, curbing pipeline vandalism, and enhancing peace and development in their communities.
Speaking on behalf of the coalition, Famous Daunemigha, the group’s spokesman, declared, “We are highly satisfied with the manner in which PINL is conducting its operations across our various communities. The presence of PINL has brought about direct employment, reduced oil theft, fostered peace, and stimulated development initiatives across host communities in Abia, Bayelsa, Imo, and Rivers States.”
The group highlighted that prior to PINL’s intervention, crude oil delivery through the TNP had plummeted to zero due to rampant vandalism and illegal refining activities. However, with PINL’s kinetic and non-kinetic security measures in collaboration with government security agencies, oil throughput has now risen to near 100 percent with minimal infractions.
“From zero percent throughput to near 100 percent delivery of crude through the TNP — that is a historic achievement,” Daunemigha said, adding that the feat deserves national recognition.
Community leaders also praised PINL’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, noting the distribution of relief materials to flood victims in Bayelsa and Rivers States, the provision of Christmas food packages, scholarships, and vocational training programs that have empowered thousands.
The company was further commended for its monthly stakeholders’ engagement forums with traditional rulers, youth and women leaders, and community development committees, which have promoted transparency, trust, and shared responsibility in safeguarding pipeline infrastructure.
Mr. Kennedy Tonjo-West, National President of the Movement for the Survival of the Ijaw Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND), remarked that “The boost in oil production is directly linked to PINL’s ability to foster a sense of ownership among host communities, thereby reducing sabotage and encouraging protection of infrastructure.”
Chidi Dogini, President of the Ekpeye Oil and Gas Families Hosts Association, confirmed that pipeline vandalism in Ekpeye territory had dropped to zero following PINL’s involvement, while HRH Tekara Akobe of Eteo Community in Eleme LGA lauded the company’s efforts and called for greater community sensitization and integration.
The ethnic nationality leaders called on the Federal Government and the Presidency to renew and expand PINL’s contract, stating that the company’s operations are in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for peace, development, and national prosperity.
“We urge PINL to sustain and even expand on its innovations,” the leaders said. “Its work has not only helped to secure vital national assets but has also brought dignity and progress to our people.”
